family road trip ideas midwest

12 Epic Midwest Family Road Trips

From gorgeous state parks to charming towns and bustling cities, there’s nothing quite as nostalgic as driving through the American Midwest .

While most travelers to the USA usually target its bustling cities and gorgeous coasts the Midwest still remains pretty overlooked on most visitors’ radar. Still, this gorgeous region of America is definitely worth exploring, especially for those yearning for an epic road trip filled with excitement, majestic vistas, and spots that give you that back-in-time feeling.

From roads that will have you driving through haunted places in Missouri to chasing waterfalls across Ohio, here are a few of the most epic Midwest road trips that need to be on your radar!

12 Epic Midwest Road Trips

1. chicago to st. louis on route 66, 2. st. louis to kansas city, 3. sault sainte marie to leland michigan road trip, 4. iowa nature adventure, 5. missouri ghost town trail, 6. west virginia midland trail, 7. milwaukee to the wisconsin dells, 8. iowa great river road, 9. post-rock scenic byway in kansas, 10. old red-old ten scenic byway in north dakota, 11. black hills & badlands in south dakota, 12. ohio waterfall road trip.

• More to know before hitting the road in the Midwest

On the lookout for the ultimate Midwest road trip? Look no further than the classic Route 66 from Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri, which is also known as “The Mother Road”.

Route 66 actually starts in Chicago and runs all the way to Santa Monica on the West Coast, but if you don’t want to go the entire way, focusing on the Midwest part of the road trip is enough to experience some of the best it has to offer.

Simply put, there is probably no road trip in the entire USA that is as full of classic Americana as the so-called “King of All Roads”. The Midwest portion between Chicago and St. Louis doesn’t slack when it comes to old-fashioned diners, classic service stations, family owned-cafes, cornfields, sleepy towns, and tons of kitschy landmarks.

Start in Chicago, where you can see all the city highlights like the Sears Tower and the Buckingham Fountain before heading to the corner of Michigan Ave. and E. Adams Street, where you’ll find the iconic “Route 66 Starts Here” sign!

Continue onwards to Lyons and check out the Hoffman Tower. Next, head to Joliet and take some time to visit the Joliet Area Historical Museum before hopping back into the car. Along the way, make a stop in the town of Bloomington, where you can stretch your legs by visiting the emblematic Illinois Route 66 Hall of Fame and Museum.

Other unique sights and landmarks you’ll find along the way are the Railsplitter Covered Wagon and the Watermelon Lincoln Monument in Lincoln, the World’s Largest Ketchup Bottle, the Our Lady of the Highway Shrine, the Soulsby Service Station, and so much more!

Once you catch a glimpse of St. Louis Arch, you’ll know the journey is over, but even then, you’ll still find plenty of incredible things to do in St. Louis to make parting a lil’ easier. For a quintessential Midwest experience (and a great excuse to toast the end of this Midwest road trip), don’t miss out on sipping a few beers at the iconic Anheuser-Busch Brewery.

Starting in St. Louis and ending in Kansas City, this route will take you through some of the most culture-filled cities and quintessential wild terrain in the southern part of the Midwest.

Start off in St. Louis, where you can spend the day checking out the iconic Gateway Arch over the Mississippi River and a couple of unique museums. From here, head to the Lake of the Ozarks , where you’ll get to bask in some serious lakeside fun with gorgeous views all over.

The city of Columbia is next on the itinerary, where you’ll get to choose from a ton of different activities ranging from outdoor adventures at the nearby Finger Lakes State Park to an afternoon spent checking out local works of art at the Columbia Art League .

Cap off your Kansas road trip touring Kansas City’s numerous memorials and statues. Then, change the mood at the American Jazz Museum and take a stroll through Kansas City’s 18th & Vine Historic Jazz District to finish one of the best Midwest road trips with a bang!

Driving from Michigan’s Upper Peninsula to the Lower Peninsula is a jaw-dropping experience and one of the best drives in the Midwest. Starting in Sault Sainte Marie and ending in Leland, it’s hard to beat the majestic wilderness that you’ll get to gawk at the entire way.

Begin in Sault Sainte Marie, a sleepy town perched between Lake Superior and Lake Huron, an ideal lake vacation spot in the Midwest!

From there, head to Tahquamenon Falls State Park for a chance to spend a few hours gazing at striking waterfalls before heading to St. Ignace to hop on the ferry to Mackinac Island. After exploring the island, get ready to cross the Mackinac Bridge to Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, which is commonly dubbed “the mitten” because of its shape.

A must-visit spot in this area of the Midwest is the Headlands International Dark Sky Park for an unforgettable night of stargazing. If you get lucky, you might even get a glimpse of the northern lights!

After a night spent gawking at the stars, you’ll likely feel a bit hungry, so next on your itinerary is Traverse City, which is considered the foodie capital of Michigan! After gorging on as many dishes as you can, head over to Leland where you can explore Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore to end this epic Midwest road trip.

Bonus detour: If you have the time, make a small detour by driving the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail , where you’ll get to try the local wines at various estates. Can you think of a better way to close out this marvelous road trip?!

Longer to spend in Michigan? Check out some of the best beach towns along the Michigan coast , or our complete collection of scenic driving routes in Michigan

Even though the state of Iowa is often overlooked on most Midwest road trips, the Hawkeye State is actually a place that brims with natural gems if you just know where to look!

Start at Decorah’s Ice Cave , an ice cave you can explore in just a few minutes but acts as a super epic way to begin this Midwest road trip. From there, head over to Dunning’s Springs Park, where you’ll find a striking 200-feet waterfall hidden amid a charming forest.

Next on the itinerary is Effigy Mounds National Monument , which homes over 200 effigy mounds created by Native Americans centuries ago. Although American Indian ceremonial mounds can be found in several locations, Effigy Mounds National Monument harbors many that are shaped like animals!

Another natural highlight deserving a spot in your Iowa road trip is Maquoketa Caves State Park . Here, you can hike and explore tons of caves scattered throughout. Finish your trip at Wildcat Den State Park , where nature and history make a perfect mix that will allow you to hike to stunning geological formations on sandstone bluffs and learn about Iowa’s past at the Pine Creek Grist Mill.

If you’re a fan of the paranormal, this Missouri Ghost Town Road Trip is sure to please.

This unique scenic road trip will have you exploring some of the most haunted places in Missouri, some of which flourished when Route 66 was opened in 1926 and later abandoned when the interstates were built, and Route 66 was rerouted.

The first stop in this spooky Midwest road trip is Arlington , which was a thriving resort town back in the 1860s before it was forgotten and left to deteriorate. The town of Bloodland is next, which was abandoned during World War II and wiped out from the map, leaving only a church bell. Rumor has it that angry displaced residents have haunted the area ever since!

If you’re feeling brave, continue on I-44 until you find the only remains of Possum Trot, a church and a house that sit quietly eight miles southwest of Nixa, where ghost sightings have been reported time after time.

From here, head west to Monark Springs , a small town that was abandoned after a typhoid outbreak in the 1950s. Finally, end your spooky road trip in Georgia City, where the cemetery is all that remains from the once-prosperous town that thrived in the 1860s.

119 miles of pure wild beauty is what the West Virginia Midland Trail is all about.

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Winding through rolling hills, dreamy forests, cascading waterfalls, and idyllic lakes, this scenic byway will take you from one end of West Virginia to the opposite, all while giving you plenty of opportunities to stop and park your car to go on a hike, see plenty of historic sites, and more.

Moreover, there are plenty of farmlands and small towns scattered all over that provide that old country charm. Hico, Ansted, Gauley Bridge, and Mt. Carbons are only some of the spots where you can stop and stretch your legs a bit, grab a bite, or spend the night before hopping back on your car and turning the music back on – preferably John Denver!

This is one of the best Midwest road trips for discovering the highlights of Wisconsin, taking you from Milwaukee to Green Bay and ending in the stunning Wisconsin Dells, one of the best family vacation spots in the Midwest .

Take in the highlights of Milwaukee from the food and breweries to its history and gallereis – don’t forget the Harey-Davidson Museum before hitting the road.

Following Lake Michigan to Green Bay you’ll pass through scenic towns such as Port Washington. Make sure to stop in at the Heritage Hill State Historical Park – and maybe catch a Green Bay Packers game?

The Wisconsin Dells await next – the kids will no doubt have their wishlist for “ the Waterpark Capital of the World “, but there are plenty of other outdoor adventures to enjoy. Make some time for a scenic boat tour and try one of the many wineries, breweries and distilleries.

Devil’s Lake State Park is the perfect way to finish your Wisconsin Road Trip.

The Iowa portion of the Great River Road follows the great Mississippi River from Iowa’s northern to southern borders. Another classic Midwest road trip, this route will take you past beautiful landscapes such as farmlands, forests, and sheer bluffs where tons of eagles soar up high.

Along the way, you’ll also find many charming river towns with friendly people and interesting sites worth checking out. Think Al Capone’s hideout – the Julien Hotel in Dubuque – or Le Claire’s famous vintage shops, including the one featured in American Pickers!

Other points of interest along the Iowa Great River Road are Pikes Peak, the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium , Eagle Point Park, and the Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens.

The Post Rock Scenic Byway is a stretch of byway in Kansas that winds through the Smoky Hills and Wilson Lake.

Even though it’s only 18 miles long, this route doesn’t slack in beautiful vistas and amazing points of interest. As a fun fact, the Post Rock Scenic Byway was named after the limestone rock posts used by Native Americans to build their homes and fences back in the day, some of which you can still admire today!

An important part of the Post-Rock Scenic Byway surrounds Lake Wilson, with many options for scenic stops and trails available for hiking in case you want to linger a while. At the end of the road trip, you’ll also get the chance to explore Lucas, an artistic small town that harbors several galleries and the well-known Garden of Eden, which features more than 150 statues!

Check out even more incredible Kansas scenic driving routes and byways over here

Running parallel to Interstate 94, the Old Red Trail will show you some of the best North Dakota has to offer, ranging from charming farm scenery to clear blue skies, vintage eateries, and quaint little shops filled with treasures to be found. This road is all about taking your time, driving slowly, and enjoying a ride that will make you feel as though you traveled back in time!

Once you pass Hebron, be on the lookout for the Richardton and Schnell Recreation Area , a 2,000-acre nature preserve where you can hit a few hiking trails in order to explore North Dakota’s unraveled nature. Other must-stops are Assumption Abbey in Richardton and Salem Sue, a giant Holstein Cow fiberglass sculpture.

This family road trip includes some of the most iconic landmarks of the Midwest, and some of the most scenic drives.

A classic South Dakota road trip will see you start in Rapid City before traversing the incredible scenery and rugged beauty of Badlands National Park . Make sure to stop in at Wall Drug before venturing west to the Mammoth Site in Hot Springs.

Wind Cave National Park will be your next South Dakota stop. Explore one of the country’s oldest national parks with its fascinating and complex cave system.

Mount Rushmore, along with Crazy Horse Memorial are undoubtedly going to be your next stops. You can see the Presidents’ heads up close on the 0.6-mile Presidential Trail, a short trail walk, or seek out the overlook on SD-244 to see Washington’s profile from a distance. Come on a summer’s evening to witness “Legends in Light” laser light show on the Crazy Horse Memorial.

Make sure to finish your trip with the Peter Norbek Scenic Byway to experience the Cathedral Spires of Custer State Park, often regarded as one of the country’s best scenic byways.

Last but not least, no trip to the Midwest is complete without exploring the stunning waterfalls of Ohio. The Ohio Waterfall Road Trip is the perfect route to take in order to explore the best of them!

Most of Ohio’s finest waterfalls can be found inside state parks, many of which you’ll get the chance to stop at as you drive this Midwest road trip. The Mohican State Park is a must-do stop where you’ll get the chance to see two falls, Big and Little Lyon Falls.

Next on the itinerary, head over to Cuyahoga National Park , where aside from getting plenty of incredible hiking ops, you’ll also get to see the striking 65-feet tall Brandywine Falls. You’ll find the best colors and climate in the fall.

To end your scenic drive in Ohio , drive over to Hocking Hills State Park , which harbors three gorgeous falls and a hiking trail that is commonly ranked as the best in the entire of Ohio!

We hope this list of the most epic Midwest road trips inspired you to grab your car keys, play some Johnny Cash tunes, and hit the road!

More To Know Before Hitting The Road In The Midwest

• Be careful of your time zones traveling through the Midwest! Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky , and Indiana follow Eastern time, whereas Wisconsin, Illinois, the Dakotas, Iowa, Kansas, and Missouri are in Central.
• Never forget an important road trip essential again! Download our family road trip checklist to help you pack for your next big adventure.

Which of these Midwest road trips catch your eye the most? I’d love to know which ones you’re most excited to drive, so let me know all about your plans in the comment section below!

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16 Best Midwest Road Trips – Scenic Routes You Can’t Miss

Posted on Published: May 25, 2020  - Last updated: February 9, 2024

Ahhh, the Midwest. Vast landscapes with beautiful scenery, the ability to connect with nature and fun attractions. One of the best ways to explore the middle of the USA is with a Midwest road trip!

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

For those of us who live here, we know there’s so much to offer. Our waving grasses with rolling hills make for beautiful, peaceful sunsets. Gorgeous lakes simply begged to be explored.

Our cities each have something unique to offer, and mix that with Midwest charm, it makes for a great place for a road trip!

Midwest road trip ideas

I’ve explored many places across the Midwest, but I haven’t covered it all. So I turned to other experts to help me out to create this list of best Midwest road trips!

Here’s a bunch of Midwest road trip ideas, ranging from 2 days to 10. From outdoorsy to artsy, there’s truly something for everyone in the Midwest!

List of Midwestern States

But before we dive in, let’s clarify the states that cover the Midwest to help you plan your trip:

• Indiana (IN)
• Illinois (IL)
• Missouri (MO)
• Kansas (KS)
• Nebraska (NE)
• South Dakota (SD)
• North Dakota (ND)
• Minnesota (MN)
• Wisconsin (WI)
• Michigan (MI)

Looking for more Midwest adventures? Check out these 16 trails – the best hiking in the Midwest !

Ready to hit the road? Here’s the best Midwest road trips

Black hills, south dakota (a classic).

Recommended trip: 7-10 days

The Black Hills in South Dakota is one of the best places for a road trip in the Midwest.  There is so much to see and do, you could easily spend months here, but for a shorter trip, 7-10 days would be great.

Rapid City is probably the best place to fly in and out of for a Black Hills trip. I would start with a couple of days in Badlands National Park .  Spend the night in Wall, visit Wall Drug and the Badlands from here, then head over to Wind Cave National Park.

Spend a night or 2 in Hot Springs to easily access the park where you can do some hiking, look for bison, and do a cave tour. Make a stop at the Mammoth site while you’re here, too.

Finally, head to Keystone for a few days. This is the perfect base for exploring the Mount Rushmore and Custer State Park area. 

Some of the must-do activities here are visiting Mount Rushmore (of course), driving Iron Mountain Road , driving the Needles Highway, driving the Custer Wildlife Loop Road, hiking Cathedral Spires Trail, and relaxing at Sylvan Lake. If you want a little side trip, you can easily visit Devils Tower in Wyoming, too.  

Recommended by Megan of Red Around the World

Chicago to St. Louis road trip

Recommended trip: 4-6 days

Driving from Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri should be on any midwest road trip. This journey is part of Route 66, one of the original highways in the United States. Route 66 was the primary route for people wishing to move west. Opt to spend one day driving this four and a half-hour drive, or break it up and spend the night in Springfield, Illinois.  

For this journey, start in Chicago. Make sure to spend at least 3 days in Chicago. Stay in the centrally located Downtown/River North area. Do not miss the Art Institute of Chicago and the Field Museum.

Grab some pictures at “The Bean” in Millenium Park. Daredevils can opt for “The Edge” experience at the Skydeck or the Tilt Experience at the John Hancock Building. 

In the morning depart Chicago to drive south towards Springfield, the capital of Illinois . Stop by the capitol building and take a free tour of the building.

Visit Abraham Lincoln’s grave at Oak Ridge Cemetery and then visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. Grab a custard at Krekel’s before heading onward to St. Louis, Missouri. 

Plan to spend at least 2 days in St. Louis to explore the main sites. Plan to stay in the Downtown area. Ride to the top of the St. Louis Arch at Gateway Arch National Park.

Take a peek into history at the Old Courthouse, where the Dread Scott decision was made. Make sure to eat some delicious BBQ before departing St. Louis.

Recommended by Francesca of Home Room Travel

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Indianapolis, IN to Boyne City, MI

Recommended trip: 2-3 days

Ready for a fantastic Midwest road trip? Regardless of the time of year, driving from Indianapolis, Indiana to Boyne City, MI is a perfect way to enjoy a long weekend.

Day one, you’ll want to get up early and head to Lansing, MI. It’s about 3.5 hours from Indy, so if you time it right, be sure to stop for lunch at Soup Spoon Cafe – a flight of soup is a fun way to start your mini-vacation. Next, if you have younger kids, head over to the Impression 5 Science Center – they’ll love the full sensory experiences. 

After the museum, finish your drive north and check-in at Boyne Mountain for the night. Enjoy a full day of exploring Boyne Mountain and nearby Boyne City the next day. If it’s winter, hit the slopes for a little skiing or even tubing.

If it’s summertime, enjoy hiking, ziplining, or swimming. Downtown Boyne City is situated right on Lake Charlevoix and the town is full of delicious restaurants such as Cafe Sante and Red Mesa as well as unique local boutiques.

Leave Boyne Mountain, and head over to Petoskey for your final day. Start it off right with amazing bagels and donuts at Johann’s Bakery and then hurry over to the main Kilwins location for a factory tour. Kilwin’s offers free tours Monday – Friday every half-hour from 10 – 4:30, and each one ends with a decadent chocolate treat.

After the tour, spend a little time poking around downtown Petoskey for lunch and to pick up a few Michigan souvenirs before heading back to Indianapolis.

Recommended by Pam of Our Adventure is Everywhere

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Central Iowa road trip

We highly recommend taking a road trip through Central Iowa. You’ll pass through  Des Moines , Iowa’s capital and other smaller towns that have some fun and interesting attractions.

Heading east along I-80, your first stop should be the town of Winterset. It’s famous for having the  actual  bridges of Madison County. Six of the original 19 covered bridges in Madison County have been preserved just outside of town. Winterset is also the birthplace of John Wayne. There is a museum dedicated to him, with lots of personal and movie memorabilia.

Continuing east, you reach Des Moines. We love this artsy city! It’s easy to find street art there and downtown has a 4.4-acre sculpture park that is free to the public. There’s also a really lovely botanical garden in Des Moines.

Of course, visiting the Capitol Building is a must. You can do a free self-guided tour and marvel at the building’s incredible architecture.

The next stop on your road trip should be the town of Grinnell. Home to Grinnell College, they have a small but impressive art museum on campus.

Grinnell is also the home of one of eight “jewel-box” banks built by legendary architect Louis Sullivan. He is considered the father of modern American architecture and mentored Frank Lloyd Wright. The bank is beautiful, with large stained-glass windows and pink Tennessee marble floors.

Recommended by Vicky of Buddy The Traveling Monkey

More road trip destinations in the Midwest

St. louis to kansas city.

Recommended trip: 3-5 days

While many people think of Missouri as a fly-over state, it’s full of not-to-be-missed gems, from St. Louis to Kansas City. So why not see some of them in one fell swoop with a 5-day road trip?

Start in St. Louis, a city bursting with historic architecture and a thriving food and cocktail scene. Spend 2 days here, exploring the City Museum, an adult playground/art installation of interactive salvaged architectural objects. Visit Forest Park, one of the country’s largest urban parks and its world-class museums, all boasting free admission. And, of course, the Missouri Botanical Gardens, consistently ranked one of the best in the nation.

At night, eat your way through the exploding culinary landscape, with one of the many restaurants helmed by James Beard nominated chefs, like Vicia or Lona’s Lil’ Eats.

Once you’ve gotten your fill, drive west to Hermann, a tiny town that has several wineries, breweries, and distilleries nestled in its idyllic grassy hills. For just $20, the Hermann Trolley will shuttle you between these establishments all day, so you can responsibly imbibe in as many craft beverages as you please.

After a day here, finish your trip with 2 days in Kansas City, famous for its jazz scene. To get a taste of it yourself, head to the American Jazz Museum during the day and the Green Lady Lounge at night to see some of the world’s best musicians in action. By the end of the trip, you’ll be ecstatic to have discovered some of the Show Me State’s abundant treasures! 

Recommended by Jessica of Uprooted Traveler

Oh, and if you’re planning to rent a car for one of these Midwest road trip routes, be sure to check out the cheap rates on Discover Cars . I usually save 10-30%, which can really add up! Discover Cars searches the top carriers to find the best deal, at no extra cost to you. It’s a win-win! Search cheap rental cars now .

Milwaukee to Wisconsin Dells

One of the best Midwest road trips you can take is exploring the highlights of Wisconsin. The ideal road trip itinerary takes you from Milwaukee to Green Bay and ends in Wisconsin Dells.

Start your road trip in Milwaukee , but you can’t leave without spending at least 2 days in this vibrant city. As a matter of fact, people flood from all over the United States to visit Milwaukee for its food, attractions and history.

Must do’s are the Harley Davidson Museum and the historic Third Ward.  Stay in the iconic Pfister Hotel in downtown.

From here you finally head out to the beautiful North of Wisconsin. Along the Michigan river you’ll cross scenic towns such as Port Washington. When you arrive in Green Bay, get ready to explore this vibrant town located in Door County. 

Some of the best things to do here are visiting the Heritage Hill State Park and watch a game by the legendary Green Bay Packers. Plan at least 1 day to visit the city and all the best things to do in Door County .

From Green Bay you’ll drive to Wisconsin Dells which is famous for its waterparks. However, there is so much more to do here. From shopping to hiking in the Dells or staying overnight in one of the  most romantic cabins in Wisconsin , there will be plenty of options to spend at least 2 days in Wisconsin Dells.

Recommended by Paulina of Paulina on the Road

Southern Minnesota road trip

Eat, relax and have fun in Southern Minnesota! Enjoy a food lovers paradise in Austin, Minnesota. Known for having some of the best Mexican food in the state of Minnesota, Austin is also known for award-winning BBQ sauces, french onion soup and stuffed raspberry french toast.

Want to have a food challenge, then be sure to stop by the Tendermaid. Also, don’t forget to visit the one and only SPAM Museum ! Yes – it’s real and there are nearly 20 restaurants with SPAM on the menu.

Then sit back, relax and enjoy the view in Fairmont, Minnesota . Home to a chain of 5 lakes and 29 parks in city limits, Fairmont provides you that opportunity to become one with nature. Explore lakeside dining, outdoor recreation and an arts and culture scene that is sure to impress .

Next discover how  Germans Have More Fun  in New Ulm! Enjoy a road trip through the MN River Valley National Scenic Byway to the most German city in America.

In New Ulm you can climb 102’ to the top of the ‘Herman the German’ monument. Enjoy a tour/tasting at Schell’s Brewery, MN’s oldest brewery. Shop the unique boutiques in the historic downtown. Hear bells chime at our Glockenspiel. See the 1873 murals in the rathskeller at Turner Hall. 

With so much to do in Southern Minnesota, there’s something for everyone!

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Richmond, IN to Butler County, OH

If you’re looking for a cool trip, head to Indiana and Ohio! Starting off in Richmond, Indiana, visit the Wayne County Historical Museum and the Levi Coffin House. Be sure to hear their amazing story of the Underground Railroad!

Stay at the Starr Loft in Richmond before heading to Ohio. On your way to Ohio’s Lake Erie Islands, take a diversion into Bremen at the Bicycle Museum of America. Then onto the Marblehead Lighthouse in Marblehead, Ohio where this historic lighthouse guided sailors safely since 1822.

That night stay at Port Clinton’s Fairfield Inn & Suites. The next morning, head over to Ohio’s Lake Erie Islands. Take Miller Boat Line’s Ferry to Put-in-Bay where you can ferry your car over to the island.

Visit Perry’s Peace Memorial which honors the War of 1812. Check out the view up the 352-foot tower! The memorial honors those who fought in the Battle of Lake Erie. The next day, on Kellys Island, take a tour in a golf cart to check out natural phenomenons like the Glacial Grooves.

Be sure to hang out for an afternoon in Downtown Sandusky, Ohio . Take a Segway tour, visit Cedar Point Amusement Park, visit the Merry-Go-Round Museum or go parasailing.

Last stop on this road trip is Butler County, Ohio! Enjoy the Donut Trail and tour outdoor art at the Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park.

Recommended by Cindy of Traveling Adventures of a Farm Girl

Related read: Best Midwest Camping Spots

Loess Hills Scenic Byway (Missouri to Iowa)

The Loess Hills Scenic Byway takes its travelers through the most extensive loess (essentially, ancient wind-blown silt deposits) outside a remote region of China! While the byway officially starts at the Iowa state border, the hills themselves run north-south a bit east of the Missouri River, from St. Joseph, Missouri to the Sioux City, Iowa area, passing near Omaha, Nebraska in the middle of the journey.

Each of these cities are destinations in their own right, and combined, they make a road trip full of scenic views and ample entertaining places to stop along the way.  

In St. Joe, Missouri, local museums provide fascinating looks at the history of the Pony Express, the art of Thomas Hart Benton (often depicting loess hills!) and the life of the nefarious Jesse James. Near Mound City, Missouri, visit the Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge to see waterfowl and bald eagles.

The Hitchcock Nature Center near Omaha and the Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center in Sioux City provide more information about the unique geology, flora, and fauna of the Loess Hills along with opportunities for hiking, boating, and more!

For ideal cruising food, try Billy Boy Drive-through just a few miles from the Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center in Soiux City for a burger and a shake! 

Recommended by Lindsay of Siouxland Families

More ideas: Midwest road trips

Minneapolis to omaha.

Recommended trip: 4-5 days

Get a nice mix of cities and wide open spaces on a Midwest road trip from Minneapolis to Omaha. Starting in Minneapolis, you’ll want to spend 1-2 days visiting the lakes, restaurants and of course, checking out the Mall of America .

Visit the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden in downtown and grab an ice cream cone at Izzy’s Ice Cream . The largest mall in North America (Mall of America) is a whole lot more than shopping, too. With an indoor amusement park, it’s the perfect activity for any weather.

Then hit the road! Next stop: Northwestern Iowa. Stop in Estherville, Iowa for a rustic winery , experience an 80-year old swinging bridge or to visit the site of the largest known meteorite seen crashing into North America.

You could stay in Esterville for the night, or head about half an hour west to Lake Okoboji. In Okoboji, Iowa you’ll find shopping, dining and a bunch of water activities , of course! Try the Arnold’s Park Amusement Park or live music after a day on the water.

Next on this Midwest road trip is Sioux City, Iowa. Grab lunch or dinner at the Fourth Street Historic District in downtown Sioux City , catch a show at the Orpheum Theatre or visit Palmer’s Old Tyme Candy Shoppe for a sweet treat before leaving town.

Omaha, Nebraska is the final destination on this Midwest road trip itinerary. You’ll want to spend 1-2 days visiting this fun city. Omaha is known as the silicone prarie, a tech hub that’s family-friendly, yet trendy enough to support a vibrant art scene and plenty of outdoor space.

One of the best things to do in Omaha is to visit the Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium , It’s the largest tourist attraction in the state, and regularly competes with the San Diego Zoo as the #1 zoo in the country! It really is that fantastic!

Check out North America’s largest indoor rain forest, feed the giraffes, walk under sharks in the aquarium and watch the animals in the world’s largest indoor desert dome. Tip: be sure to buy your tickets in advance online and arrive early to avoid the crowds as best as you can.

Get a good tour of the city while taking fun photos at the most Instagrammable places in Omaha . Spend some time wandering the Lauritzen Gardens or check out the Fun-Plex Waterpark.

For some mystery check out the Joslyn Castle , and for some history visit the Lewis and Clark Landing. The Old Market in downtown is the perfect spot to grab a bite to eat after a long day touring the city.

Recommended by me! Nikki of She Saves She Travels

Duluth to Grand Marais, Minnesota

Recommended trip: 1-2 days

A Minnesota road trip on Highway 61 between Duluth and Grand Marais will offer you amazing views of Lake Superior, numerous options for a delicious bite to eat, and some can’t miss attractions .

As you leave Duluth, choose the 24-mile scenic route to Two Harbors, and take in the view of Lake Superior along the way. In Two Harbors you can walk along the breakwater to the lighthouse, and watch the ore ships coming and going. Enjoy a local brew at Castle Danger Brewery after doing some shopping in Agate Bay.

Just north of Two Harbors is Betty’s Pies and you don’t want to miss stopping here ! This is a full service restaurant, but they also have a walk up counter where you can order their famous pie. The pie flavors change every day, but you definitely want to try the Great Lakes Fruit Pie . This pie is filled with blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, apples, and rhubarb and it is one of a kind.

It is 11 miles to the next stop, in Castle Danger, but get your camera ready because you’ll be driving through 2 large tunnels, and the exits of both perfectly frame Lake Superior. 

Castle Danger is home to Gooseberry Falls and Split Rock Lighthouse State Parks. You can learn a little history of the area while touring the lighthouse and take a hike down the hillside to dip your toes in the cool Lake Superior water.

Gooseberry Falls State Park has 5 waterfalls that you can hike to, and a very nice visitor center to buy some souvenirs at.

Along the remaining 72 miles to Grand Marais, take the time to stop at a beach or two to hunt for agates. The beaches along the North Shore are loaded with agates and it’s fun to find a few to bring home.  

The city of Grand Marais has a main street full of local shops that ends on the shore of Lake Superior.  The beach is a popular spot to watch the water, and to eat a delicious donut from World’s Best Donuts or maybe you’ll want a slice of thin crust pizza from Sven and Ole’s.  

Grand Marais is also the start of the Gunflint Trail. This is a 57-mile paved roadway that ends in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area near the border of Ontario.

This 110 mile road trip between Duluth and Grand Marais can be made in one day, but why not take your time and really discover the beauty of Lake Superior and the North Shore.

Recommended by Vicki of That Was a First

I-70 Kansas road trip: Abilene to Kansas City

Recommended trip: 2-4 days

Enjoy a wealth of historic, cultural, and recreational activities along Interstate 70 in northern Kansas. Start in Abilene, Kansas with visiting the Eisenhower Presidential Library, Museum, and Boyhood Home. Head over to pet Ginger, the greeter at the Greyhound Hall of Fame. Enjoy award-winning fried chicken at the Brookville Hotel.

Next stop along I-70 in Kansas is Junction City, home to Milford Lake and the Fishing Capital of Kansas. Tour Fort Riley’s museums, but prepare for security. Eat Munson-raised, dry-aged beef at Munson’s Prime restaurant, a local favorite. A perfect spot to call it a night is by the lake at Acorns Resort.

Then you’ll hit Manhattan, Kansas. For high adventure, fly zip lines at Wildwood Adventure Park. Afterwards, relax and eat and drink at Liquid Art Winery & Estate!

Slide into Topeka, Kansas where you can dive into history and visit the state capitol and the national historic site where the Supreme Court reversed segregation in Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka . A great way to end the day is with elegance at the Cyrus Hotel.

As you head east on I-70, you’ll get to Lecompton, Kansas. Learn more about where slavery began to die at Constitution Hall State Historic Site and the Territorial Capitol. Then lighten things back up by grabbing a slice of gourmet pie at Aunt Netter’s Cafe. Delicious!

Next up is Lawrence, Kansas and downtown is the place to be! Experience downtown Lawrence during the day or night. See basketball’s original rules at The Cradle of Basketball. And if you’re looking for a brewery, Free State Brewing Co. is Kansas’ first post-prohibition brewery. Stay at in the heart of Lawrence at The Oread.

The final stop on this Northern Kansas road trip before arriving at Kansas City is Leavenworth, Kansas. Visit Fort Leavenworth, or ride antique carousels at C.W. Parker Carousel Museum. A must-try in Leavenworth is the steak house tenderloin at Metropolitan Steakhouse.

Wrapping up the I-70 Kansas road trip is of course, Kansas City! Enjoy the major leagues: sporting Kansas City at Children’s Mercy Park and NASCAR at Kansas Speedway. Eat top-notch barbecue at SLAP’s BBQ. After a great road trip in Kansas, stay in the Chateau Avalon.    

Recommended by Roxie of Roxie on the Road

Midwest road trip: Missouri Route 66

While most people think of a  Route 66  Road Trip as starting in Chicago and ending in Santa Monica, you don’t need to take two weeks and traverse half the country to get in a taste of the Mother Road. Instead, you can pick a portion and explore it in-depth.

Missouri has a great stretch of Route 66 right here in the Midwest. It starts in the northeast crossing over from Illinois into St. Louis and ends at the Oklahoma border after passing through Joplin.

Obviously the most iconic site on Missouri’s portion of Route 66 is the Gateway Arch, which practically welcomes you onto the road. Make sure to tour Meramec Caverns , see the one-room jail in Cuba, and explore the interesting history of Carthage. 

Take advantage of the fun roadside kitsch of the route and get out at as many stops as you can. A real Route 66 road trip means you need to spend a few nights in the state’s retro motels and enjoy some diners and dive bars.

Recommended by Stephanie of Oklahoma Wonders

Driftless Area Scenic Byway (Iowa)

Recommended trip: 1-3 days

Allamakee County is the home to the most scenic byway in the state of Iowa, Driftless Area Scenic Byway. This beautiful scenic byway zigzags its way on hard-surfaced and gravel roads through the high relief, pre-glacial landscape in extreme northeastern Iowa in Allamakee County. 

This byway has been voted most scenic byway in the state of Iowa . It’s 100 miles of amazing! Along the Driftless Area Scenic Byway you will find…

Effigy Mounds National Monument , the 2,526-acre park by the Yellow River has walking trails with modest to extended routes, allowing you to select your route and view a variety of mounds. An accessible boardwalk trail into the wetlands near the visitor center is available for persons of all walking abilities.

Yellow River State Forest was first acquired as a state forest in 1935, the Yellow River State Forest has grown to encompass nearly 9,000 acres of natural beauty.

Great River Road , where you can enjoy 36.2 miles of the Great River Road in Allamakee County. You will discover the best of the Great River Road right here!

Driftless Area Education & Visitor Center , where you’ll see live animals, interpretative displays, 2 viewing decks of the Mississippi River, and a great group educational experience.  Located just south of Lansing.

This Midwest road trip takes your scenic adventure to another level with:

• Wine Tasting – Madigan Winery, Lansing & Empty Nest Winery, Waukon
• Bird Watching
• Beer Tasting – Safe House Saloon in Lansing
• Trout Fishing
• Cheese Curd Tour – WW Homestead Dairy in Waukon
• Shopping – Horsfall’s in Lansing, Paint Creek Gifts in Waterville and City Meat Market inNew Albin

Recommended by Val of Allamakee County

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Triple Nickel Byway (Ohio)

Winding through the southern part of Ohio is the  Triple Nickel  which encompasses parts of State Route 555. If you’ve never been on this scenic, twisting by-way through the hills of Ohio, you need to put it on your bucket list! This is a perfect day trip that takes you from the picturesque town of Zanesville to the history-rich city of Marrietta.  

The Triple Nickel is one of the more challenging roads in Ohio, but you can take in some of the amazing historical sites when you’re in the area. While touring through Morgan County you can see the Big Muskie bucket part of the world’s largest earth-moving machine in Miner’s Memorial Park and Barkhurst Mill Covered Bridge.  

No trip on the Triple Nickel is complete without stopping to eat at the Triple Nickel Diner in Chesterhill. Pro-tip: Make sure to check their website for the hours of operation because they vary with the seasons.  

If you’re looking for a great place to stay while on the route, take a small detour to the  Stockport Mill Inn located in Stockport, Ohio . You’ll be treated to stunning views of the Muskingum River and the operating locks. Dotty, the owner, will treat you like family and feed you amazing comfort foods only found at the Inn.

The Triple Nickel doesn’t disappoint the road tripper looking for a challenge in the Midwest.

Recommended by Brandy of Gleason Family Adventure

Madison to Spring Green, Wisconsin

One of the most exciting small cities in the Midwest is  Madison, Wisconsin . It has a wonderful dining scene and miles of shoreline and bike trails.

A culmination of a college-town and a bustling city, Madison is also home one of America’s most beloved architects: Frank Lloyd Wright. Wright used Madison and its neighborhoods as a canvas, where visitors can see his many designs come to life. Although several of Madison’s Wright-designed houses are private residences, designs like the First Unitarian Meeting Houses and Monona Terrace are must-see spots for any architectural buffs! Both buildings are just a short 10-minute drive away.

If you want to see more of the city’s art scene , visit either the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art or the Chazen Museum of Art! Both museums boast both Wisconsin-based artists, as well as international artists too. Furthermore, admission is free for adults, making this the perfect stop for anyone that loves to travel on a budget. 

While you’re in Madison we also highly recommend grabbing tacos from Matthew Danky and his exciting outpost El Grito Tacqueria.  

From Madison, drive about 40 minutes to the quaint town of New Glarus , Wisconsin. The main attraction here is New Glarus Brewing, one of the most highly regarded breweries by beer snobs across the country so make sure to spend a few hours there. 

New Glarus also has rich Swiss heritage. Explore and find an authentic Swiss bakery or locally made raclette and cheese fondue.

Our last stop is very enjoyable Spring Green, an hour away down winding country roads.  Frank Lloyd Wright spent the better part of his life living and working in Spring Green and maintained a school at Taliesin. Wright’s students designed many unique buildings in and around Spring Green.

Recommended by Nick of Road Goat

16 best Midwest road trips

Well there you have it! I hope you’ve found some inspiration on which route you’ll take on your upcoming Midwest road trip! Midwest states have a lot to offer for any type of road trip you’re looking for!

Comment below on which you’re considering – or which route surprised you most!

You might also like: Best Hiking in the Midwest – 16 Cool Hikes You’ll Love Denver to Moab Road Trip: 16 Scenic Stops You Gotta See to Believe 27 Awesome Things to Do in Sandusky, Ohio You Can’t Miss Perfect Colorado Itinerary: 22 Road Trip Stops You Need to See Miami to Key West Road Trip: 22 Stops Along the Way 26 Best Places to Visit in October in the US

Planning to rent a car for one of these scenic routes? Check out the cheap rental car rates on my favorite site. I save up to 30%, which is awesome!

Find this article helpful? Save it for later or share it on social media!

Saturday 25th of September 2021

Awesome. I'm wanting to take a scenic drive from Kansas to Ohio, off the beaten path. What are your recommendations?

Sunday 26th of September 2021

Where in Kansas and Ohio? I've spent time in Kansas City and St. Louis which may be along the way, but aren't necessarily off the beaten path. Perhaps a bit more southern, I've heard the Mark Twain National Forest and Shawnee National Forest are both gorgeous! Otherwise I've recently spent time in Sandusky Ohio, Put-in-Bay Ohio and the Lake Erie area. I'm sorry, I'm not sure I have a whole lot of suggestions for that specific route since I haven't personally done it. Best of luck on your road trip!

Alice Peace

Wednesday 27th of January 2021

Thank you for this! A road-trip in the States is definitely on the cards in the future.

Yay! How fun, Alice. I'm crossing my fingers it's soon!

Pamela Foester

Tuesday 12th of January 2021

I love exploring the Midwest, thanks for sharing.

You're so welcome, Pamela!

Tuesday 25th of August 2020

You missed a Gem of the Midwest. Part of the Driftless region on NE Iowa you need to check out the town of Decorah and the area around it. River bluffs, water falls, bike trails, 3 award winning breweries, big Scandinavian culture and museum.

Wednesday 26th of August 2020

Great suggestion! I've heard of Decorah but have never been!

Christa Ellis

Tuesday 9th of June 2020

I love that you included the Levi Coffin House. I have a post about it on my blog. Levi Coffin was a distant cousin to me through his grandmother Prudence Beals/Bales.

Friday 12th of June 2020

Oh very cool! What a small world, Christa! My pleasure to feature it. :)

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15 Fun Midwest Road Trips For Your Bucket List

March 25, 2021 by //  by  Midwest Explored 1 Comment

Looking for fun Midwest Road Trips to explore? Then take a look at this list full of the best Midwest road trips.

I was born and raised in the Midwest and I know there is so much to enjoy about each state.

That’s why I’ve found a unique and fun road trip in the Midwest for each Midwestern state.

On these road trips you’ll drive down the iconic Route 66, sample the best restaurants in Nebraska, admire natural wonders, and explore famous ghost towns.

So here are 15 fun Midwest road trips for your bucket list!

Route 66 Through Illinois For History Lovers

• Bloomington
• Collinsville

You’ll start your Midwest road trip through Illinois’ portion of Route 66 in Chicago.

Make sure to grab a picture of the iconic Route 66 sign in Chicago that marks the start of the famous highway.

From there, you’ll pass through Joliet and head into Bloomington. You’ll want to check out the Illinois Route 66 Hall of Fame and Museum.

Head out of Bloomington towards Litchfield. On the way, you’ll pass through some amazing kitschy road side attractions and unique food stands.

In Litchfield, grab something to eat at the iconic Doc’s Soda Fountain before experiencing the Sky View Drive-in Theater.

You’ll finish your trip in Collinsville where you should consider stopping at the Rabbit Ranch as you end your journey on the iconic Route 66.

Natural Wonders Of Iowa Road Trip

• Dunnings Spring Park
• Effigy Mounds National Monument
• Maquoketa Caves State Park
• Wildcat Den State Park

For your Midwest road trip through Iowa’s natural wonders, you’ll start at Dunning’s Springs Park.

Dunning’s Springs Park is home to one of the best waterfalls in Iowa .

From there, head to Effigy Mounds National Monument. This national monument is home to over 200 effigy mounds created by Native Americans from 20 different Nations.

Next, you’ll make your way to Maquoketa Caves State Park.

Maquoketa Caves State Park is over 300 acres and has the most caves of any Iowa State Park.

Many of them you can walk through and hike out to see.

End your trip at Wildcat Den State Park. It is a beautiful park known for it’s massive rock features.

You can take hikes and admire the ‘Devil’s Punch Bowl’, ‘Fat Man’s Squeeze’, and ‘Steamboat Rock’.

Post-Rock Scenic Byway, Kansas

• Limestone Native American Posts
• Wilson Lake
• The Garden of Eden

The Post Rock Scenic Byway is a stretch of byway in Kansas that is 18 miles long.

It winds through the Smoky Hills and is named for the unique limestone rock posts Native American’s used to build their fences, homes, and other structures.

Along the route, you’ll be able to admire these unique limestone Native American posts. Four of them have had faces carved into them by California artist, Fred Whitman.

One of the main parts of the byway is the area surrounding Wilson Lake.

There are several scenic stops you can take to admire Wilson Lake, or you can get out and explore and hike near the lake.

The scenic byway ends in the town of Lucas, which is home to the famous ‘Garden of Eden’.

The ‘Garden of Eden’ is a National Historic Place that features over 150 folk art statues.

S.P. Dinsmoor was a Civil War veteran who created the folk art statues in the late 1800s.

Dinsmoor and his art made Lucas an artists town and it is now home to several different artist collectives and unique galleries.

It is the perfect stopping point for your road trip in the Midwest.

Ghost Towns Of Missouri For A Spooky Road Trip

• Possum Trot
• Georgia City

For those looking for a spookier adventure, consider a road trip in the Midwest full of Missouri ghost towns.

You’ll start your road trip in Arlington, a once lively town on Route 66. Arlington was established in the 1860s but was abandoned less than 100 years later.

Just south of Arlington is Bloodland. The oddly named town became obsolete in the 1940s, but a few buildings still remain.

From Bloodland you’ll head to the town of Possum Trot. All that remains of the former town is a church and a home that have long stood abandoned.

Finish your trip in Georgia City. The only thing left of this once hopping town is the cemetery. Many of the town’s original residents are burried there.

A drive through the ghost towns of Missouri is sure to make for an interesting Midwest road trip.

The Ohio River Scenic Byway, Indiana

The Ohio River Scenic Byway runs in three states, with 300 miles running through Indiana.

There are three historic towns you’ll pass through that offer charming experiences in each.

Begin your road trip in Vevay, named the 4th Coolest Small Town in America, and for good reason. There you can visit a casino, have a delicious meal, and even go zip-lining.

From Vevay you’ll continue down the scenic byway to the charming town of Madison. You’ll be able to sample locally made cider, go hiking, and enjoy small town charm.

Finish your Ohio River Scenic Byway road trip in the small town of Newburgh.

In Newburgh, walk the Riverwalk, grab a bite to eat, and explore unique shops.

Small Towns Of Minnesota Road Trip

• Taylors Falls

There are so many cute small towns in Minnesota that it makes for the perfect Midwest road trip.

You’ll start your trip in Ely, which is home to one of the best waterfalls in Minnesota , the Kawishiwi Falls.

From there, head to Pipestone, which is home to the Pipestone National Monument. At the National Monument you’ll be able to hike and learn more about Native American history.

After you leave Pipestone, continue on to Winona. Winona is perfect for a romantic getaway if you are a couple that enjoys festivals.

The small town of Winona is known for it’s frequent and unique festivals. So no matter what time of year you visit, you’ll probably get to enjoy one.

End you’re small towns road trip in Taylors Falls.

It’s the perfect place to end your trip because you’ll be able to decompress and enjoy the great outdoors.

Lighthouses Of Michigan Road Trip For Coastal Fun

• Big Red Lighthouse
• Big Sable Point Lighthouse
• Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse
• Fort Gratiot Point Light Station

Start your exploration of Michigan’s lighthouses at the famous Big Red Lighthouse in Holland. Holland is great for a weekend getaway in Michigan , so consider spending a little time enjoying the town while you’re there.

From there, travel North to the Big Sable Point Lighthouse.

The Big Sable Point Lighthouse is in Ludington, which is also where you can find one of the best beaches in Michigan .

Next, you’ll stop at the Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse, one of the best lighthouses in Michigan , which is on Mackinac Island.

Mackinac Island is another great place to explore, so plan to spend some time to tour both the lighthouse and the nearby area.

End your trip at Michigan’s first lighthouse, the Fort Gratiot Point Light Station.

It first opened in 1825 and is a popular lighthouse for tourist visits, so plan enough time there to get the full experience. The lighthouses of Michigan road trip in the Midwest is a great way to experience Michigan coastal life.

Old Red/Old Ten Scenic Byway, North Dakota

• Assumption Abbey

If you’re looking for Midwest road trips that explore the hidden parts of Midwestern States, then consider traveling down the Old Red/Old Ten Scenic Byway in North Dakota.

The best part about this road trip is that it is mostly full of beautiful scenic views of North Dakota.

As you drive along, you’ll come into the small town of Taylor. Taylor is known for it’s yearly horse festivals.

If you stop by during one of those festivals, you’re in for a real treat.

Next you’ll pass into Richardton, which is home to the beautiful Assumption Abbey.

While you’re there, make sure you take the time to tour this stunning abbey that is seemingly in the middle of nowhere.

As you finish you’re road trip, you’ll find Salem Sue.

Salem Sue is the World’s Largest Holstein Cow fiberglass sculpture. It was built in 1974 using $40,000 in donations from local farmers and residents.

It is a unique way to end your Midwestern travel through scenic North Dakota.

Ohio Waterfalls Midwest Road Trip s

• Mohican State Park
• Brandywine Falls
• Lanterman’s Falls
• Hocking Hills State Park

Most of Ohio’s best waterfalls can be found in state parks, so start your road trip in Mohican State Park.

At Mohican State Park there are two waterfalls you can see. The Big and Little Lyons Falls, both of which flow over deep sandstone gorges.

Next head to Cuyahoga National Park to admire the Brandywine Falls, home to one of the best waterfalls in Ohio .

The falls are a popular spot to visit and cascade down into the river over 65 feet. The hike to view them is fairly easy, so it’s a great stop on any waterfall Midwest road trips.

Continue on to Lanternman’s Falls, which is actually in Youngstown Ohio’s metro park.

Make sure while you’re there you take the time to explore and enjoy the best things to do in Youngstown Ohio .

End your trip at one of my favorite spots, Hocking Hills State Park.

Hocking Hills State Park has some of the best hiking trails in Ohio , and a lot of them lead you to one of the three waterfalls there.

Exploring Ohio’s waterfalls is a great way to see some of the most beautiful spots in my home state.

State Parks of Wisconsin Midwwest Road Trip For Outdoor Adventures

• Peninsula State Park
• Copper Falls State Park
• Pattison State Park
• Devil’s Lake State Park

There are tons of State Parks in Wisconsin, but for this road trip, I have found some of the best ones for you to explore.

Begin your journey at Peninsula State Park. It is the state’s second most popular park and has a mix of challenging and easy hikes, so there is something for everyone.

If you are up for the challenge, hike the 2 mile Eagle Trail to admire breathtaking limestone cliffs.

Continue your trip to Copper Falls State Park.

Copper Falls State Park is home to one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Wisconsin , but not the only state park on this trip to have waterfalls.

From Copper Falls, head to Pattinson State Park.

Pattinson State Park is home to Wisconsin’s biggest waterfall, Big Manitou Falls. The hike is fairly easy to view it, so I definitely suggest taking the time to do the hike.

Finish your Midwest road trip in Devil’s Lake State Park.

This State Park is known for its many unique rock formations and this has made it one of Wisconsin’s most popular State Parks.

When you plan this road trip, make sure to give yourself plenty of time to explore all the State Parks and what they have to offer.

Michigan’s Covered Bridges Trail

• Fallasburg Covered Bridge
• Ada Covered Bridge
• Langley Covered Bridge Historic Site
• Holz-Brucke Bridge

Michigan has its own Covered Bridges Trail and its a great way to explore Michigan. You’ll start your trip in Lowell at the Fallasburg Covered Bridge.

Fallasburg is one of the only four covered bridges in Michigan that is still open to vehicle traffic.

Tourists have been coming to view this 100 foot covered bridge since it was built in 1871.

Right by the Fallasburg bridge is the Ada Covered Bridge.

The Ada Covered Bridge is only open to foot traffic and takes you across the Thornapple River onto Bronson Street in Ada.

From there, you’ll travel to the Langley Covered Bridge, which is the longest wooden covered bridge in Michigan.

End your tour of Michigan’s covered bridges in the cute Michigan small town of Frankenmuth.

Frankenmuth is home to the Holz-Brucke Bridge which was actually built in 1980.

It may be a newer covered bridge, but it is absolutely worth a stop on your Midwest road trip!

Best Restaurants A Midwest Road Trip Through Nebraska For Foodies

• The Chocolate Bar, Grand Island
• The Mixing Bowl, Gering
• Sehnert’s Bakery, McCook
• Shirley’s Diner, Omaha
• UNL Dairy Store, Lincoln

Nebraska is full of amazing restaurants, so start in Grand Island and The Chocolate Bar. The stand out on this bakery’s menu is their Old Fashioned Chocolate Cake, but you’ll love anything you order.

Next head to Gering and sample German classics with a bit of Midwestern flair at The Mixing Bowl.

The Mixing Bowl is open for breakfast and lunch and the locals absolutely love it, so you know it’s going to be good.

After breakfast or lunch at The Mixing Bowl, head to Sehnert’s Bakery in McCook for a delicious pastry, a gourmet sandwich, or a cup of espresso.

For dinner, you can’t beat Shirley’s Diner in Omaha.

Shirley’s is a family owned and operated classic 1950s style diner. You’ll get to enjoy Nebraska favorites to the sounds of good old fashioned Rock N Roll.

End your foodie Midwest road trip at the UNL Dairy Store for a sweet treat.

UNL Dairy Store offers ice cream that is handmade by local university students as well as other sweet dairy treats.

It is a perfect way to end one of the most unique Midwest road trips in Nebraska.

Haunted South Dakota Midwest Road Trip

• Mount Marty College
• Gitchi Manitou
• Scotty Phillip Cemetery
• Historic Fairmont Hotel

South Dakota is home to some well known haunted location, making it the perfect place to have a haunted road trip.

Start your haunted road trip at Mount Marty College.

Mount Marty College has been home to ghost tales ever since the death of a maintenance worker in 1936. Residents in Whitby Hall report apparitions, scratchings, and strange noises.

From there head to Gitchi Manitou for some newer haunting rumors.

Gitchi Manitou is where six Sioux Falls teens were reportedly murdered in the 1970s while camping and now local legend says the teens haunt the area.

Your next stop is the Scotty Philip Cemetery.

Its no surprise that an old cemetery would have rumors of being haunted. The cemetery has a sad story of a father surviving his five children, and now locals believe he haunts the grounds mourning his children.

End your haunted road trip at the famous Historic Fairmont Hotel in Deadwood South Dakota.

Ghost tours are offered daily or if you’re brave, you can spend the night and wait for an opportunity to experience the ghostly happenings yourself.

This will definitely be one of the most interesting Midwest road trips you can take!

Roadsides Attractions Of Illinois For A Kitschy Midwest Road Trip

• Superman Square, Metropolis
• Brook’s Catsup Bottle, Collinsville
• The Gemini Giant, Wilmington
• De Immigrant Windmill, Fulton

Illinois has some great hidden gems in the Midwest , like kitschy roadside attractions, and a lot of them are on the famous Route 66. So you can combine this road trip with my Route 66 one!

Begin your kitschy road trip in Metropolis where you can admire the Superman Square. Metropolis claims to be the home of the iconic super hero, and takes that very seriously.

From there, head to Collinsville where you can view the World’s Largest Catsup Bottle, the Brook’s Catsup Bottle.

At one time, it was the water tower for the town, but now it is a fun kitschy roadside attraction.

Next, head to the Launching Pad restaurant in Wilmington.

Outside of the restaurant stands a large Mid Century statue known as the Gemini Giant. Its a really fun spot to grab a bite to eat and a fun selfie!

Finish your kitschy road trip by viewing the De Immigrant Windmill in Fulton.

The De Immigrant Windmill was originally constructed in the Netherlands but now stands proudly in this cute Illinois town.

Natural Wonders of Missouri Road Trip

• Clifty Creek Natural Bridge
• Johnson Shut-ins
• Elephant Rock State Park
• Grand Gulf State Park

Missouri is the perfect state for Midwest road trips that focus on natural wonders, because it has plenty!

I suggest starting your road trip at the Clifty Creek Natural Bridge.

You’ll have to take a 2.5 mile hike, but at the end you’ll get great views of the natural rock bridge.

From there, head to the Johnson Shut-ins.

The Johnson Shut-ins are volcanic rock that are stuck in the East Fork of the Black River. They make for a great way to spend a hot summer day, because you can go swimming in the area.

Continue to Elephant Rock State Park to see it’s namesake, the Elephant Rock.

The rock formation was created with 1.5 billion-year-old granite that you can now climb and admire.

Finish your journey through Missouri’s natural wonders at the Grand Gulf State Park.

Locals refer to Grand Gulf as the “Little Grand Canyon” and was formed by a collapsed cave system. It’s a great way to end your Midwestern travels.

Packing List For Your Midwest Road Trips

If you will be traveling, either by plane or by car to the Midwest, here are some  tips on how to pack lightly.

A  concealed travel pouch  may be one of the most important items you bring along when taking Midwest road trips. It is always important to protect your personal information. Identity thieves are everywhere.

his  unisex RFID blocking concealed travel pouch is  lightweight and comes in several colors. It has lots of organization to give you peace of mind.

You can place it under your hiking clothes next to your body to carry your ID safely.

If you have a pouch already that does not come with the RFID protection, as I do, these  RFID  sleeves are  the perfect solution.

This configuration comes with enough credit card sleeves that the entire family would be protected. They are slim too, so they will easily fit into your pouch or wallet. 

If you are planning on taking a lot of pictures with your phone you will definitely want to consider an  external charging battery . This  Anker high-speed phone charging battery  is  the exact one  I carry with me on all of my trips.

It can be used on a variety of phones, not just an iPhone like I have. And wow is it fast!

I like that it holds its charging capabilities for several uses so I do not have to worry about it while out and about, and if I forget to recharge it at night, it will still be good to go the next day.

My daughter gifted me with this  FugeTek selfie stick and tripod   setup for my birthday. I absolutely love it! It is made of lightweight aluminum and so easy to use.

It has Bluetooth connectivity and is a breeze to use for taking selfies when staying in one of the best Airbnbs in Illinois.

Hydration is so important when traveling. You want to remain hydrated throughout your travels to support your immune system which in turn will be stronger to fight off any germs you will encounter during your travels. 

You will want to bring your own  refillable water bottle  with you. 

I never leave home on a trip without my  Bobble filtration bottle .  The 18.5-ounce size is perfect for hiking and it fits nicely in the pocket of a backpack.

When filled with water, it is not too heavy to carry. And the charcoal filter ensures fresh clean water whenever you fill the Bobble.

You can find  filter replacements here. 

Perhaps you are traveling a long distance and packing space is a premium in your suitcase, or in your car.

Then this  set of collapsible silicone foldable water bottles  would work well for you. Would not take up much space at all. 

You will want a  backpack or daypack  with you to store snacks, your water bottle, phone, extra clothes, etc.. when hiking This   foldable water-resistant backpack   would be great

It is very affordable and is available in many color options for you to choose from. The fact that it folds down into a zippered pouch will make it easy to pack.

No matter which of these Midwest road trips you decide to do, you’re guaranteed to have a good time. They all offer a unique and fun way to explore the Midwest.

Have you been on any of these road trips or ones like them? If you haven’t, which one do you want to take first?

I’d love to hear about your Midwestern travels in the comments!

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13 Marvelous Midwest Road Trips (Itinerary Ideas + Tips!)

Of all the regions of the USA, there’s a good chance that (for non-locals) the Midwest is the most surprising–and that alone is an excellent reason to plan a Midwest road trip!

Packed with diverse national and state parks, incredible beaches (yes, beaches!), interesting cities, a seemingly endless array of quaint lighthouses and charming small towns, and so much more, the Midwest is far more than “flyover country”.

Sure, many of the best road trips in the Midwest require a lot of time on the interstate.

And yes, visiting in winter probably isn’t optimal for most first-time visitors.

But, if you’ve never visited the region before, any of these incredible Midwest road trip routes–many of them written by locals–are bound to leave you enchanted.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

We asked several other travel bloggers to share their favorite Midwest USA road trip ideas with us, and they delivered a remarkably diverse set of routes, perfect for everything from weekend getaways to long vacations.

From the wide-open spaces of Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota to the stunning architecture of Chicago to the historic charm of Mackinac Island, there are so many incredible places to visit in the Midwest.

We have offered suggestions for the best hotels in each place but if you are doing this as a true road trip it is really cool to do it in an RV. You can rent incredible RVs and camper vans from Outdoorsy, book here for your next road trip!

Here are some of the best Midwest road trip itineraries to consider for your next vacation!

Table of Contents

Quick Tips for Taking Your Midwest Road Trip

Single-state midwest road trip itineraries, multi-state road trips in the midwest.

Don’t underestimate the driving distances.

The Midwest is an expansive region with lots of wide open spaces, and that can lend itself to drives that are longer than some visitors might expect!

Be sure to check estimated driving times carefully when planning your route, and build in plenty of stops to stretch your legs.

… And also to check out the many quirky roadside attractions in the region, like the Corn Palace in South Dakota or the American Gothic House in Iowa!

If you’re renting a car, shop around.

The best company to rent a car from for your Midwest road trip will likely vary dramatically depending on where and when you’re traveling.

Sometimes large international carriers offer the best prices, sometimes local outfits. Sometimes one company has an excellent base price, but terrible rental requirements.

The best way to find your rental car is to search through  Discover Cars , which will sift through dozens of companies to find the best combination of low prices and reasonable rental terms for your road trip route.

Browse rental cars  for your Midwestern USA road trip today!

Read the rental requirements carefully.

Especially make sure you know how many miles you’ve been allotted (or ideally, if they’re unlimited), if you need to return the car empty or full of fuel, what to do if the car breaks down, and what damages you’re liable for in the event of an accident.

Make sure you pack the right gear.

From safety gear to snacks, a road trip in the Midwest requires bringing the right tools along, whether you’re taking a short vacation, trying out van life, or something in between.

We recommend taking a look at the suggestions on  our road trip packing list  before you go!

Don’t overextend yourself.

Exploring all of the incredible places to visit in the Midwest is a project for a lifetime, not one trip!

As tempting as it is to add on additional driving to stop at just one more waterfall, lighthouse, or small town, make sure that you leave enough time to thoroughly explore each destination rather than spending the entirety of your vacation driving from one spot to the next.

Be prepared to be surprised!

If this is your first trip to the Midwest, there’s a good chance that its diversity and beauty will enchant you in all the best ways.

When exploring the Midwest, beautiful beaches, delicious food, gorgeous fall foliage, incredibly warm people, and dynamic cities–among many other treasures–are just around the corner.

South Dakota State + National Parks Road Trip

From Allison of Eternal Arrival

One of the best Midwest road trips is a loop from Rapid City, South Dakota making stops in its two national parks, as well as Custer State Park!

This is an easy road trip that you can do in as little as 4 days, but you can also make it part of a larger  South Dakota road trip itinerary .

Start in Rapid City to begin your trip and then make your way first to Wall, SD.

This fun little town is a great place to stop at Wall Drug Store for scenic photos in an Old West-feeling setting.

From there, head through Badlands National Park from the Northeast Entrance, taking the 30-mile Badlands Loop Road and stopping at as many overlooks as possible!

Depart via the Pinnacles Entrance and then make your way to Wind Cave National Park.

Wind Cave National Park is beautiful but there must be some advance planning as you need advance reservations to visit Wind Cave.

Book your reservation for one of the 3 tours, ranging from moderate to hard difficulty, on the  NPS website here . 

After visiting Wind Cave, swing up north towards Custer State Park for one of the final stops on this South Dakota tour.

Custer State Park in the Black Hills is home to lots of stunning wildlife, including bison, pronghorn antelope, and elk. Bring your binoculars and a zoom lens!

Finally, drive back to Rapid City to end your road trip.

Driving Distance

Recommended road trip length.

At a minimum, you should spend at least 2 days in Badlands National Park, 1 day in Wind Cave National Park, and 1 day in Custer State Park.

This road trip can be done easily in 4 days, but you can stretch it out to a week and visit other sites like Mt. Rushmore, the Black Hills National Forest, Keystone, and Crazy Horse.

Ohio Road Trip Along Lake Erie’s Coast

From Theresa of Fueled By Wanderlust

One of the Midwest’s best road trips is  driving Ohio’s Lake Erie coast   from Cleveland to Marblehead for gorgeous lake views, beautiful sunsets, and lots of local history.

Beginning in downtown Cleveland, spend a day exploring the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame, Old Arcade, and West Side Market. 

Depart Cleveland the next day via Route 2, with several lakefront parks to your right. 

Edgewater Park and Lakewood Park offer Cleveland skyline views, while Edgewater Park and Huntington Reservation have pretty beaches. 

Continue for thirty minutes towards Lorain, OH, transitioning over to Route 6. 

While being a rust belt city, Lorain also offers a broad beach at Lakeview Park and the charming Lorain Harbor Lighthouse. 

Literature fans may also know it as Toni Morrison’s hometown and the setting of  The Bluest Eye .

Vermilion, the next town over, is a quaint location for an overnight stay. 

Its small downtown has an old-timey feel, with historic storefronts and a soda shop. 

Take a stroll down Main Street for elegant dining at Chez Francois, and to see tiny Vermilion Lighthouse and its adjacent beach.

After leaving Vermilion, continue down Route 6 for a short rural break until you reach Sandusky. 

After consuming Asian fusion food and craft beer at Small City Taphouse, walk 10 minutes to the Maritime Museum of Sandusky. 

This museum features exhibits on the Battle of Lake Erie and Sandusky’s role in the Underground Railroad. 

If you love roller coasters, plan an extra day in Sandusky to catch thrills at Cedar Point.

Finally, drive 30 more minutes to the tip of the Marblehead Peninsula to reach the 200-year-old Marblehead Lighthouse. 

This beauty is the oldest continuously running lighthouse on the Great Lakes.

With no stops,  this drive  takes a little over 2.5 hours. 

However, I recommend slowing down over a long weekend to fully enjoy each stop.

North Dakota Road Trip (Fargo to Theodore Roosevelt National Park)

From Anwar of Beyond My Door

Many people overlook North Dakota, however, the state has a plethora of road trip-worthy sites.

Starting in Fargo, visiting the town that is unfairly characterized by the movie of the same name, visitors can enjoy this hip small city of the north.

Be sure to check out the Plains Arts Museum and the wonderful contemporary, traditional, and folk art of the region.

For those with more time, a quick stop in adjacent Moorhead MN, and the Hjemkomst Center, visitors can connect with the local Scandinavian culture through this incredible boat journey.

From Fargo, head west stopping in Jamestown, to see the old wild west town and the largest buffalo.

Similar to many other big roadside attractions throughout the state.

From here, visitors can detour slightly north and visit interesting Lewis and Clark expedition sites such as Fort Mandan (where Lewis and Clark wintered) and the nearby Knife River Indian Villages known as the birthplace of Sacajawea.

Both can easily be visited on the same day before heading on towards Bismarck.

Bismarck, the capital but smaller and sleepier than Fargo has a cute downtown as well as beautiful nature nearby.

But if you are pressed for time save the nature exploration until you head to  Theodore Roosevelt NP , 2 hours west of the capital.

Named for the 26th president, the park protects North Dakotan Badlands and local flora and fauna such as bison.

The park is divided into two non-connected units and at least 2 days are worth spending in the park.

But if you have very limited time, the South Unit has more diversity of sights.

For those with more time and desire to explore local history, a quick stop at Fort Union Trading Post (90 minutes from the north unit) is worth a look at the fur trade and one of the most important forts in the mid-1800s.

About 550 miles, plus time in the national park. 

This Midwest road trip can be anywhere from 4 to 8+ days.

It’s recommended to spend at least 2 days in Fargo, a day en route to Bismarck, 1-2 days in and around Bismarck, and another 2-3 days in Theodore Roosevelt NP. 

Minnesota’s Iron Range

From Susan of This Big Wild World

Have you heard of Minnesota’s Iron Range ?

Stretching from central Minnesota and north to the border of Canada, the region is home to some of the best mountain biking in the country, excellent hiking, and the pristine wilderness of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area.

This Midwest road trip itinerary starts and ends in Minneapolis, which is a city worth exploring!

Enjoy an afternoon at a Minnesota Twins baseball game or paddling the lakes in the heart of the city. 

Next, head to Crosby which is part of Cuyuna Country. What once were mining pits are now crystal clear lakes surrounded by mountain biking trails for all levels.

Spend a day paddle boarding or kayaking the lakes or cruising the trails. Gear rentals are available in Crosby.

From there, drive to Ely which is a gateway into the Boundary Waters.

This area is among the most beautiful and remote wilderness in the US, best explored by canoe. Find guides and outfitters in Ely for gear and permits.

For hiking, try the Norberg Lake Trail at nearby Bear Head Lake State Park or the Bass Lake Loop Trail. 

Duluth is a harbor town on Lake Superior, offering easy access to popular destinations along Minnesota’s north shore.

Be sure to watch for the big ships entering the harbor near Canal Park, relax on the beach at Park Point, and stop at one of the many breweries in town.

Ursa Minor and Bent Paddle are local favorites!

These destinations are just 2-3 hours apart and have tons to explore.

Spend a minimum of 1 day in each of the 4 destinations for a 4-5 day trip.

Or, take your time and spend up to 3 days in each destination for a 7-10 day road trip.

Badlands National Park Scenic Road Trip

From Theresa of The Local Tourist

At only39 miles, the Badlands Loop State Scenic Byway is a short but mighty road trip in South Dakota. 

Driving through Badlands National Park  is a surreal experience.

You’ll feel like you’re on another planet instead on a road trip in the Midwest USA.

The drive begins in Cactus Flat at Exit 131 off I-90. You’ll know you’re nearing the exit because you’ll begin seeing sand-colored buttes, spires, and cliffs to the south.

After taking the exit, it’s a short distance to enter Badlands National Park.

Before you even get to the Ben Reifel Visitor Center, you’ll see a few overlooks and trailheads.

The visitor center itself is a great place to get your bearings, take a bathroom break, and get something to eat at the restaurant next door.

From there, you’ll continue west through the otherworldly landscape.

In addition to the unique formations, you’re also likely to encounter pronghorn antelope, bighorn sheep, bison, and prairie dogs.

The road ends at Wall, which is a destination in its own right with its famous, or infamous, Wall Drug.

You could drive straight through in about an hour, but what’s the fun in that?

For a more immersive experience, camp at one of the two campgrounds within the park and take some day hikes.

Michigan’s Upper Peninsula

From Linda of Midwest Explored

Easily one of the best road trips in the Midwest USA, a drive through Michigan’s upper peninsula is a must-do.

Start one of the best Michigan road trips of them all by crossing Mackinac Bridge into the Upper Peninsula.

If you want, leave your car behind and enjoy all that Mackinac Island has to offer before continuing on.

After all, this island is completely car-free and features top attractions like Fort Mackinac and Arch Rock. 

Next, continue onto the peninsula and check out the natural beauty of Kitch-iti-kipi, an incredible local spring with crystal-clear waters.

Then, hop back on the road and drive to Porcupine Wilderness State Park.

It’s a wonderful area with stellar views of Lake Superior, gorgeous local waterfalls, and 90+ miles of trails that will take you through vast old-growth forests. 

From here, drive until you hit Marquettethe.

It’s known for being the largest city in this UP (Upper Peninsula for all the non-Michiganders out there) and is a great place to explore Presque Isle Park, Sugarloaf Mountain, and Lakenenland Sculpture Park. 

Finally, conclude your road trip at the Pictured Lakes National Lakeshore with its dynamic natural landscape.

Be sure to explore the multicolored Pictured Rocks cliffs, Miners Castle, Chapel Rock sandstone formations, and Twelvemile Beach.

While this road trip isn’t long, taking around 2 hours to drive, plan on devoting between 3 and 5 days to this trip.

You could definitely spend an entire day on Mackinac Island alone!

Mount Rushmore to the Badlands, South Dakota

From Candice of CS Ginger

Mount Rushmore to the Badlands of South Dakota is a fantastic Midwest road trip route.

While there’s a sad story behind the impressive facade of Mount Rushmore, there’s no doubt that visiting the monument and associated museum is an incredible experience.

After visiting Mount Rushmore and touring all it has to offer, you will travel to the Badlands National Park.

Badlands National Park is a very beautiful and unique area.

There are really fun hiking trails in the Badlands , and it is a great place to visit with your family. 

You will be surprised at all the animals the Badlands offer.

You can see big horn sheep, buffalo, and the famous prairie dog area where you will see lots of prairie dogs. You can get very close to the prairie dogs but don’t touch them or get too close!

If you want to stay in the park, you will need to stay at Cedar Pass Lodge in one of their rental cabins. 

There are some hotels and camping options close by, but the Cedar Pass Lodge is the only option if you are looking at staying inside the park.

This is a classic road trip in the Midwest, and a fantastic way to spend a long weekend (or longer!).

About 80 miles.

We recommend spending at least 3 days enjoying this road trip in South Dakota, though 4-5 days would be better if you have more than a long weekend to work with.

Missouri + Southern Illinois Road Trip

From Tori of Tori Pines Travels

When planning a road trip in the Midwest, you won’t want to miss Missouri and Southern Illinois.

The perfect road trip includes a variety of cities filled with activities, nature to explore, and delicious food to eat, and you’ll find plenty of that here.

Start in Kansas City, Missouri where you’ll visit the American Jazz Museum and Money Museum.

For the famous Kansas City BBQ, check out Gates Bar-B-Q and order burnt ends.

Spend two nights here, before continuing east across the state to St. Louis. 

A weekend in St. Louis is the perfect amount of time.

Start at the country’s smallest national park, The Gateway Arch National Park, ride the tram to the top for incredible views over the city.

The free museum teaches the history of St. Louis and its title as the gateway to the west.

That night, visit Busch Field for a Cardinals game with the arch as your backdrop.

For kids, and kids at heart, spend a few hours at the City Museum, the most unique children’s museum you’ll find.

Fill the rest of your time with visits to the free activities, the St. Louis Zoo, St. Louis Art Museum, and Missouri History Museum!

Eat some of St. Louis’s staples, toasted ravioli, St. Louis Style pizza, St. Louis style ribs, and gooey butter cake.

Finish off the road trip by venturing across the river into Illinois to Shawnee National Forest.

The draw here is the Garden of the Gods which features fun dog-friendly hikes and super unique rock formations.

The whole trip should take about 5 to 6 days, and will only require about 6.5 hours of driving.

Great Cities of the Midwest Road Trip Loop

From Lisa of Waves and Cobblestones

Looking for a fun road trip itinerary in the Midwest?   

Making a round trip from Chicago, Illinois to Milwaukee and Madison in Wisconsin will give you a great sampling of museums, architecture, and natural beauty to enjoy.

Start your road trip in Chicago, Illinois. One of the undisputed best experiences here is the architectural river cruise . 

Your vantage point from the river gives you great views of the skyscrapers, and you’ll learn a lot about Chicago’s architecture and history.

Chicago is also home to several fantastic museums, including the famous Art Institute of Chicago.

The Field Museum is the home of Sue, the largest Tyrannosaurus rex specimen ever discovered.

Your next stop is Madison, Wisconsin. This college town is also the capital of Wisconsin. 

The Capitol building is incredible and is free to tour. Be sure to take in the panoramic city views from the observation deck!

One of the  best things to do in Madison   is to visit the Olbrich Botanical Gardens. 

The outdoor areas of the garden are free to visit. Don’t miss the phenomenal Thai pavilion and garden – this is definitely the garden’s highlight!

Continue on to Milwaukee, Wisconsin. 

Enjoy local favorites like bratwurst and fried cheese curds (and perhaps a local beer) at Old World 3 rd  Street. 

Then take a stroll along the downtown Riverwalk and enjoy the public art including ‘The Bronz Fonz’.

Spend an afternoon at one of Milwaukee’s museums, such as the world’s only Harley-Davidson Museum. 

Be sure to take a look at the amazing architecture of the Milwaukee Art Museum, with its Burke Brise Soleil ‘wings’.

320 miles round-trip.

Recommend Road Trip Length

This Midwest road trip itinerary will take you about a week since you’ll want to spend a minimum of 2 days in each city. 

Route 66 Road Trip Through the Midwest (Chicago to Oklahoma)

From Kylie of Between England and Iowa

The classic US road trip Route 66 starts in Chicago Illinois and passes through the Midwestern states of Missouri and Kansas before crossing into Oklahoma and continuing west all the way to Los Angeles, California. 

Of course, it’s quicker to travel on the Interstate but the heart of the road trip is to follow the original route across the country.

Travelers could easily spend a couple of days exploring Chicago alone, but it’s at least worthwhile checking out the Route 66 BEGIN sign at E Adams St and S Michigan Ave.

The stretch across Illinois between  Chicago to St Louis   can take upwards of 12 hours, especially if stopping at several of the different points of interest. 

When the Interstate was built, it bypassed all the small towns along the route.

To encourage travelers to come back many of the towns created unique roadside attractions.

Today, you can find a mixture of historic buildings that were part of the original Route 66 as well as the unique attractions from the time after the Interstate was built.

Some highlights between Chicago, IL, and Catoosa, OK include The Gemini Giant (Wilmington, IL), Pontiac, IL, the Chain of Rocks Bridge, IL, Gateway Arch National Park (St. Louis, MO), the World’s Largest Rocking Chair (Fanning, MO), Cars On The Route (Galena, KS) and the Blue Whale (Catoosa, OK).

Approximately 700 miles.

This road trip could be done in around 3 days (overnight stops in St Louis, MO, and Carthage, MO).

However, with the addition of spending time exploring the larger cities of Chicago and St. Louis, it is better to take around 5 or 6 days.

Great Lakes Road Trip in Wisconsin + Michigan

From Jenifer of The Evolista

One of the best Midwestern road trip journeys is a National Lakeshore Road Trip to visit 2 of the best kayaking trips in the US , Apostle Islands National Lakeshore and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.

Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is a spectacularly beautiful area in the most northern part of Wisconsin that has a 12-mile stretch of mainland rocky cliffs with sea caves and a chain of 21 islands.

It also has the distinction of having the most lighthouses in the USA.

A kayak tour of the mainland sea caves will take you to the prettiest spots around the reddish sandstone shoreline.

You will cruise through incredible caves in turquoise water and can also hike the Lakeshore Trail through old-growth forest for a different vantage point.

On your way to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, break up the drive with a day at Porcupine Mountains State Park where you’ll find waterfalls, tons of hiking trails, and gorgeous views, especially for fall foliage.

It adds an extra hour of drive time but it’s completely worth it.

When you arrive in Munising, you’ll be treated to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore’s towering multi-colored cliffs, bright blue waters, and hidden caves.

On a kayak tour, you can paddle to Lovers Leap Arch, Chapel Rock, Battleship Row, and sea caves. Or hike the Chapel Loop Trail to get even more incredible views. 

But this place isn’t all about the rocks. Don’t miss Twelvemile Beach for a traditional beach day or enjoy the sunset at Sandpoint beach.

And you’ll also find beautiful waterfalls at Munising Falls and Miner’s Falls. 

This road trip in the Midwest takes approximately 6 hours of driving.

Plan at least 4 days to be able to do daily activities and a week to enjoy at a more leisurely pace.

Kansas City, Omaha + Des Moines Road Trip Loop

From Sage of Everyday Wanderer

There are many things to love about Kansas City — flowing fountains, tree-lined boulevards, and the world’s best barbeque.

So before you head north on this road trip loop through America’s Heartland, be sure you’ve hit all of the highlights in the Chiefs Kingdom. 

Start with the Liberty Memorial. This 217-foot tall limestone tower surrounded by acres of green space honors those who perished in World War I and is home to the only museum dedicated to the Great War.

It’s also one of the best places to view the Kansas City skyline. 

Then head to the Country Club Plaza where you can shop, dine, and admire Spanish-inspired architecture and several of the city’s most renowned fountains.

Then stroll through the sculpture garden, explore the glass maze, and snap a selfie with one of four, oversized badminton shuttlecocks at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art.

And you certainly won’t want to leave town without eating your fill of Kansas City barbeque .

The next stop is Nebraska’s biggest city, Omaha, about three hours to the north.

Walk across the Missouri River – a natural border between Nebraska and Iowa – on the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge.

Then enjoy The RiverFront connecting river to Downtown Omaha with lush green space, pet-friendly areas, a sculpture garden, and more.

Fuel up at a cafe or eatery in the Old Market, and don’t miss the world-renowned Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium.

The capital city of Des Moines is about two hours east of Omaha.

Stretch your legs after the drive by wandering through Pappajohn Sculpture Park or strolling through the botanical garden.

Tour the gold-domed capitol building, and learn more about Iowa’s biggest city with an interactive scavenger hunt.

Outdoor enthusiasts will want to hike or bike the Des Moines River Trail, and foodies will want to compare the barbeque at Flying Mango to what they enjoyed in Kansas City.

On the way back to Kansas City, stop in Pella. With its working grain windmill, Dutch bakeries, and thousands of tulips in the spring, you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported to the Netherlands while exploring the middle of America.

580  miles.

We recommend enjoying this Midwest road trip itinerary over the course of a week, in order to allow about 2 days per city.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

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17 Unique Towns to Visit on a Midwest Road Trip with Kids

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Families looking for a unique vacation idea should consider a Midwest road trip with kids ! The Midwest offers a variety of charming locations to explore and make memories together. Families will love Grand Marais , Minnesota, where you can dip your toes in Lake Superior or search for moose along the Gunflint Trail. Then, head to Galena , Illinois, which is one of the most charming Midwest towns to visit with kids! Explore the town’s many historic buildings and learn about the 1832 Black Hawk War. Or, maybe Door County is more your style? This Wisconsin peninsula is dotted with unique small towns, including one that can only be reached by ferry! Here, your family can go hiking or meander lavender fields! No matter what’s on your Midwest bucket list, you’ll find plenty to do in these 17 Unique Midwest Towns to Visit on a Midwest Road Trip with Kids !

Pro Tip: To help your planning, we’ve also included nearby cities (all 5 hours or less) to pair with these family-friendly small Midwest towns for your road trip with kids, as well as lodging options for each location.

Cedar Rapids, Iowa

One of the best small towns to visit in the Midwest with kids has to be Cedar Rapids , Iowa. While in Cedar Rapids , be sure to meander through the kid-friendly Cedar Rapids Museum of Art , home to the largest collection of American Gothic artist Grant Wood’s work. Up for another museum? Head to the National Czech and Slovak Museum & Library , which features interactive exhibits and heritage programs.

Then, get ready to treat the kids to a unique shopping experience. The year-round public market, NewBo City Market , is held in the center of Cedar Rapids’ New Bohemia neighborhood. Taste the local flavors of Iowa’s growing food culture, including produce and prepared food, as well as vendors who sport crafts from locals! Finally, don’t miss the many outdoor activities , including farm visits and hiking ! On your Midwest road trip with kids, spend a night or two in Cedar Rapids.  

Nearby City Pairs: Chicago, IL (less than 4 hours), Minneapolis, MN (less than 4.5 hours), and Omaha, NE (less than 5 hours).

Where to Stay in Cedar Rapids with Kids

While in Cedar Rapids , you can choose from cozy B&Bs, home rentals, and full-service hotels. Firstly, Homewood Suites by Hilton Cedar Rapids-North offers suites with a fully equipped kitchen, just 10 minutes from downtown. Then, the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cedar Rapids Convention Complex is just a short walk from the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art and Paramount Theatre. You’ll also find plenty of home rentals through sites like Airbnb or VRBO , as well as campgrounds and RV sites.

Top 20 Cedar Rapids house rentals from $69/night | Vrbo

Deadwood, South Dakota

When taking a Midwest road trip with kids, Deadwood , South Dakota, is a must-see! With ties to the gold rush, Deadwood is just as wild today as it was when legends like Wild Bill Hickok wandered the streets and local establishments. Not only is this one of the best-hidden gems in the Midwest , but the entire town is also a National Historic Landmark!

During your visit, wander the charming downtown area and soak in the history around every corner. Then, try your luck at the Broken Boot Gold Mine . Here, you can pan for gold after touring one of the historic mining shafts. Afterward, grab a pint at the Miner Brewing Company , where you can play lawn games or enjoy one of the concerts on the lawn. You can also check out Tatanka , where you’ll hear the Story of the Bison, as well as learn about the Lakota people.

Nearby City Pairs: Rapid City, SD (less than 1 hour), Casper, WY (less than 4 hours), and Bismark, ND (less than 5 hours).

Read Next: 5-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary For Badlands National Park

Where to Stay in Deadwood with Kids

Offering everything from hotels to cabins and camping, to B&Bs, you’ll find the perfect place to call home while staying in Deadwood. Just a few blocks from downtown, consider First Deadwood Cottages . Each cottage includes at least two bedrooms, off-street parking, and a hot tub! Nearby Hotel Alex Johnson Rapid City, Curio Collection by Hilton , provides a charming stay featuring a rooftop bar, salon, and spa. Looking for something a bit more rustic? Try the Creekside Campground , including options for cabin stays, RVs, and tent camping.

Door County, Wisconsin

Door County is located on a peninsula in Wisconsin and offers many unique places to stay in the Midwest! With a line of charming towns dotting the western coast, you’ll find the perfect home base for your stay. Our families recommend Egg Harbor , Sister Bay , or Gibraltar . For a truly unique experience, take the ferry to Washington Island , where you can find a cozy place among the island’s lavender fields!

While visiting, check out one of Door County’s many lighthouses. Adventurous families can explore Pottawatomie Lighthouse, the oldest lighthouse on the peninsula, located in Rock Island State Park. If you time it right, you can also see the cherry blossoms or pick cherries yourself in one of the many u-pick locations. Families with diving experience can also go diving among the off-shore shipwrecks in Lake Michigan! Kayaking, hiking, and camping are additional experiences you can have here.

Nearby City Pairs: Milwaukee, WI (less than 2.5 hours), Madison, WI (less than 3.5 hours), and Chicago, IL (less than 4 hours).

RELATED : Best Places To Visit In Wisconsin For Families

Where to Stay in Door County with Kids

Door County offers many unique places to stay along the peninsula and on Washington Island. Find options for resorts, hotels, cabins and cottages, and camping. Firstly, find various accommodation options at Baileys Harbor Yacht Club Resort , nestled along the eastern coast of Door County . Plus, this waterfront resort includes over 1,000 acres ideal for hiking and snowshoeing. Alternatively, find four ways to camp in Door County , including rustic, off-the-beaten-path campsites and options for RVs.

Find Top 50 Door County waterfront vacation rentals On Vrbo.com

Galena, Illinois 

Looking for one of the most family-friendly vacation destinations in the Midwest? Check out Galena , Illinois. Wander Main Street, which offers over 100 charming shops and boutiques, including fanciful candy and ice cream parlors, to treat the kids! History enthusiasts will adore Galena , as about 85% of the buildings in town are on the National Register of Historic Places.

You can learn more about local history at the Apple River Fort , which catalogs the 1832 Black Hawk War fought between settlers and the indigenous Sauk tribe. After soaking in some local history, head to Galena Cellars Vineyard and Winery for a glass of wine perfectly paired with charming country scenery (dog friendly!). Finally, adventurous kids will love Chestnut Mountain Resort , where you can select from an alpine slide, zip-lining, segway tour, and more! Families will surely find Galena one of the most unique places to visit in the Midwest!

Nearby City Pairs: Madison, WI (less than 2 hours), Chicago, IL (less than 3 hours), and Minneapolis, MN (5 hours).

Where to Stay in Galena with Kids

Charming Galena also offers historical places to lay your head after a long day, including the Hellman Guest House . Standard rooms and one suite offer stunning views of Galena and quick access to outdoor activities. Or, consider the Irish Cottage Inn & Suites , nestled among the iconic rolling hills and a quick drive from downtown Galena. Both rooms and suites are available, each offering complimentary breakfast and access to the indoor pool and hot tub.

Find Galena cottage rentals on Vrbo.com .

Grafton, Illinois 

Nestled along the confluence of the Mississippi River and Illinois Rivers, Grafton , Illinois, is one of the hidden gems in the Midwest! Located under an hour from St. Louis, Missouri, Grafton is widely known for its sweeping scenic views and vibrant downtown area.

Outdoor enthusiasts can spend their days hiking in bluffs and wooded areas within Pere Marquette State Park. Or, rent boats and jet skis to explore Grafton Harbor by water. Brave kids will love getting a view of the rivers by air while zip-lining. The fastest run even gets up to 45 mph! After your heart resumes its normal beat, do a little window shopping as you stroll along the downtown area. You will find a wide variety of antique stores, small shops, and locally owned businesses. While exploring the riverside, stop by The Loading Dock to nibble on the catch of the day.

Continue your Midwest road trip with kids to St. Charles, Missouri , on The Grafton Ferry , operated by the Calhoun Ferry Company . Or, check out nearby Alton , Illinois, another charming Midwest town recommended by our families!

Nearby City Pairs: St. Louis, MO (less than an hour), Kansas City, MO (5 hours), Chicago (5 hours), and Indianapolis (5 hours).

Where to Stay in Grafton with Kids

Find vacation rentals, B&Bs, and cozy cabins for your stay in Grafton. Consider the Tara Point Inn & Cottages , which offers standard rooms, suites, and on-site cottages. Overlooking the Mississippi and Illinois rivers, you’ll have ample space to spread out, as well as quick access to Grafton and St. Louis. Families will also find campsites available at Pere Marquette .

Grand Marais, Minnesota

Grand Marias , Minnesota, is one of the best family-friendly vacation destinations in the Midwest . Nestled along the north shore of Lake Superior, this enchanting town has a lot to offer for all ages! Embark on a tour aboard the iconic Hjørdis for an unparalleled view of Grand Marais and Lake Superior. Or, get on the water by kayak for another unique view of the local Sawtooth Mountains.

After your tour, meander around Artist’s Point , a short hike ideal for kids. Then, adventurous children will love walking out to the Grand Marais Light House . Be sure to have shoes that can get wet! Not up for a walk? Grab a coffee from Java Moose and sit on the nearby beach while kids throw rocks into the water. Outdoor families can also find several amazing hikes, including those within Cascade River State Park (which includes a waterfall!) and Judge C.R. Magney State Park .

Nearby City Pairs: Thunder Bay, Ontario (90 minutes, plus boarding crossing), Duluth, MN (2 hours), and Minneapolis, MN (4.5 hours).

READ NEXT : 31+ Amazing Places To Visit In Northern Minnesota With Kids

Where to Stay in Grand Marais with Kids

Various fantastic accommodation options along the North Shore offer quick access to Grand Marais and outdoor adventures. In town, consider Grand Marais Campground and Marina , featuring cobblestone beaches and on-site mini-golf within walking distance to downtown. Offering suites and dog-friendly accommodations, East Bay Suites is nestled along the edge of Lake Superior in the heart of Grand Marais. Finally, 8 miles outside of Grand Marais and near the Gunflint Trail, families will love Skyport Lodge . Offering both lodge-style rooms and cabins, Skyport Lodge is situated among the pines and offers picturesque views of Devil Track Lake.

Book Lake Superior Beachfront in Grand Marais on Vrbo

Hannibal, Missouri

Headed to Missouri on your Midwest road trip with kids? Be sure to check out Hannibal ! Under two hours from St. Louis, Hannibal is one of the most unique places to stay in the Midwest , especially for literary enthusiasts.

Children familiar with the tales of Huck Finn and Tom Sawyer will delight in visiting the boyhood home of Mark Twain . Here, learn how Mark Twain turned childhood friends into beloved storybook characters! Have a family member interested in Titanic history too? Unsinkable Molly Brown’s birthplace and museum are also found in Hannibal . Once you’ve had enough historical tours, head to the Mark Twain Cave Complex , featured in several of Mark Twain’s novels. Kids will love exploring the caves by lantern light!

Nearby City Pairs: St. Louis, MO (2 hours), Kansas City, MO (less than 3.5 hours), and Chicago, IL (less than 5 hours).

Where to Stay in Hannibal with Kids

Find hotels, B&Bs, and campgrounds to suit your stay in Hannibal with kids. Families looking for a hotel stay can find rooms and suites at Holiday Inn Express & Suites Hannibal – Medical Center . Just off Interstate 36, you’ll find this hotel convenient to all major area attractions. Or, consider a more intimate stay at the Dubach Inn Bed & Breakfast , offering several suite options, which include private baths and private sitting rooms. Located in the historic district of Hannibal, the Dubach Inn Bed & Breakfast is just a few blocks from Hannibal’s best shops, museums, and more! Finally, camping is seasonally available at the Mark Twain Cave Campgrounds .

Holland, Michigan

Families looking for one of the best-hidden gems in the Midwest will adore Holland , Michigan. With an award-winning downtown area, you can shop until you drop, no matter the season (there are heated streets in the colder months!).

Time your family trip right, and you can attend the world-renowned Tulip Time Festival . Kids will love finding tulips in all of their favorite colors! In line with the Dutch theme, be sure to check out Dutch Village . This family-friendly attraction features a small theme park, Dutch-inspired crafts, and tasty foods to thrill the whole family! Families seeking outdoor adventures won’t be disappointed either. You can try everything from sailing Lake Michigan to hiking wooded trails and more! In fact, you can even find sandy beaches to lounge on during the summer months. Encounter a rainy day? Check out BAM! Entertainment Center , which offers everything from escape rooms to bowling alleys!

Nearby City Pairs: Chicago, IL (2.5 hours), Indianapolis, IL (just over 4 hours), and Milwaukee, WI (less than 5 hours).

Where to Stay in Holland with Kids

In Holland , find everything from hotels to cottage rentals and campgrounds. Stay downtown at the CityFlatsHotel for a convenient hotel location. Or, consider Home2 Suites by Hilton Holland to ensure you have room to spread out. Then, Teerman Lofts offers luxury suites in one of Holland’s most historic buildings. Families will also love the outdoor pool and boutique resort experience at The Beach House At Lake Street . Just a short drive from downtown, The Beach House At Lake Street is nestled in the lakeshore area, across the street from Lake Macatawa, and a short walk from Lake Michigan. Finally, Holland State Park offers family-friendly campsites, as well as sugar sand beaches, and a bounty of outdoor adventures!

RELATED : 45 Fun Places To Visit In Michigan’s Lower Peninsula With Kids

Mackinac Island, Michigan

One of the most unique places to visit in the Midwest is a Michigan island offering enchanting strolls, bike rides, and horse-drawn carriage tours. Ditch the car on this stop of your Midwest road trip with kids ; Mackinac Island is a no-vehicle island that allows families to unwind and connect in magical ways, starting with the ferry ride from Mackinaw City or St. Ignace.

Begin your family vacation in Mackinac Island by hailing a horse-drawn carriage to survey the charming downtown area. Afterward, stop at the many fudge shops in town for a taste of what makes Mackinac Island so special. Then, head to the iconic Arch Rock. Pack a picnic lunch and make it a truly memorable day! Adventurous families can also explore the island by kayaking, parasailing, sailing on Lake Michigan, or aboard a fishing charter. Finally, pack your clubs; there are three golf courses on the island!

Nearby City Pairs: Marquette, MI (3 hours, plus ferry time from the island), Grand Rapids, MI (less than 4 hours, plus ferry time from the island), and Detroit, MI (less than 4.5 hours, plus ferry time from the island).

Where to Stay on Mackinac Island with Kids

No matter what your lodging preferences are, you’ll find what you’re looking for on Mackinac Island . From resorts to cottages to condos and more, Mackinac Island has it all! When staying in Mackinac Island , our families recommend the Grand Hotel for those looking for an elegant afternoon tea, access to horse-drawn carriage rides, and posh dinners to orchestral music. Need something less formal? Consider The Inn at Stonecliffe , which offers quiet tranquility away from the hustle and bustle of this historic downtown area. Finally, head to Mission Point Resort for a waterfront property offering standard rooms and suites, as well as an array of family-friendly activities on-site. Plus, kids eat free and can indulge in one of the many complimentary kid’s activities!

Book Hotels in Mackinac Island State Park, MI

Madeline Island, Wisconsin

If you’re looking for one of the most unique places to stay in the Midwest, you’ll want to check out Madeline Island . Located on Lake Superior, this Wisconsin island is the largest of the 22 Apostle Islands. Take the ferry from Bayfield to reach one of the best small towns to visit in the Midwest with kids!

An outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, you can hike, bike, kayak, swim, and canoe your way across Madeline Island . Families will find cozy cottages and camping sites dotting the coastline, offering picturesque views of Lake Superior and easy access to the island’s many attractions. If you encounter poor weather, head to the Madeline Island Museum . Here, you’ll discover many exhibits highlighting the island’s rich history. Or, head to Woods Hall , where kids can watch in wonder as weavers work the loom. Lucky kids may even get a chance to try it!

Nearby City Pairs: Duluth, MN (less than 3 hours) and Minneapolis, MN (5 hours).

Where to Stay on Madeline Island with Kids

When exploring Madeline Island, you can opt to stay on the mainland or the island. On the island, find an array of cabins, cottages, hotels, and camping options. Firstly, The Inn on Madeline Island offers cottages and condos for families, including lakefront options. Then, Ferry Landing Suites on Madeline Island gives families a taste of tranquillity and peace, as well as stunning scenery and cabin living near the island’s attractions. Finally, go rustic and camp at Big Bay State Park . Outdoorsy families will adore the 1.5-mile stretch of beach and over seven miles of hiking, boardwalk, and nature trails to explore.

Medora, North Dakota

Families looking for family-friendly vacation destinations in the Midwest will adore Medora , North Dakota! This charming town is the gateway to Theodore Roosevelt National Park , where your family can enjoy a plethora of outdoor activities. Hike among the North Dakota Badlands , where you can catch a glimpse of the roaming bison and elk. Then, enjoy the panoramic views from the Painted Canyon Overlook .

In town, put on your best cowboy boots and grab your seats for the Medora Musical , the “rootin’-tootinest” show in the Midwest. Or, head to Little Bully Pulpit for a rousing round of mini-golf. There is even a zip-line for adventurous kids. After a long day of hiking, head to the Medora Children’s Park . This free attraction is styled after the Old West and allows kids to run, climb, and play to their heart’s content! 

Finally, if you’re planning a Midwest road trip with kids to Yellowstone National Park , Medora offers an exciting overnight or two on your way! Don’t forget about the 4th-Grade National Park Pass, here’s what you need to know !

Nearby City Pairs: Bismarck, ND (2 hours), Rapid City, SD (less than 4 hours), and Billings, MT (just over 4 hours).

Where to Stay in Medora with Kids

Families will love the Western charm of the Rough Riders Hotel . Here, you’ll have the option of standard hotel rooms and suites, plus it’s centrally located in Medora. Families preferring to camp will find options for that too! In fact, you can camp along the Little Missouri River with stunning views of the North Dakota Badlands (rustic campsites and RV options are both available).

Book Your Hotel in Medora – Wonder Now, Wander Later

Mitchell, South Dakota

Next on our list of best small towns to visit in the Midwest with kids is Mitchell , South Dakota. This darling Midwest town is known for the world’s only Corn Palace, as well as offering a great location for outdoor adventures.

Families can fill their itinerary with hiking, biking, fishing, boating, and camping. In fact, Kiwanis Woodlot Park offers 8 miles of lakeshore off-road hiking and biking trails! Approximately half a million people visit the Corn Palace each year. Here, kids can explore seven quirky corn murals made out of a variety of corn types. Not to mention, admission to one of the most unique places to visit in the Midwest is free! Hunting and wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate visiting Cabela’s . Here, families can meander through museum-quality animal displays in recreations of their natural habitats, as well as huge aquariums. Plus, stock up on supplies for future outdoor adventures.

Nearby City Pairs: Sioux Falls, SD (less than 90 minutes), Omaha, NE (less than 4 hours), and Minneapolis, MN (less than 5 hours).

Where to Stay in Mitchell with Kids

Families visiting Mitchell will find a plethora of accommodation options, including everything from a Holiday Inn Express & Suites Mitchell to campsites. Those interested in camping should consider Dakota Campground , which includes options for camping, RVing, and cabin stays. If you’re looking for one of the most unique places to stay in the Midwest , check out Hetland’s Hunting Haven. Located about 20 miles outside of Mitchell, this family-owned Pheasant Hunting operation and lodge is also a working farm.

RELATED : 16 Fantastic Places To Visit In Michigan’s Upper Peninsula With Kids

Munising, Michigan

Headed to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula (UP)? Munising , Michigan, offers an ideal location for a pitstop or end destination on your Midwest road trip with kids. Nestled along Lake Superior, you’ll find plenty of outdoor adventures here. Not only are you within a short distance of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore , featuring one of the UP’s iconic landmarks, but you’ll also be able to explore Grand Island National Recreational Area (only .5 miles offshore!).

Hike about Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore to see Miners Castle , and, further along, the shore, Sable Falls . You can even take a Glass Bottom Shipwreck Tours . Kids will delight in seeing several shipwrecks up close. Afterward, explore the water by sea kayak , or land by horseback riding or mountain biking . Within an hour, you can also reach Kitch-iti-kipi and Presque Isle Park . One thing is certain, you’ll find ample fresh air and outdoor adventures while exploring Michigan’s UP.

Nearby City Pairs: Marquette, MI (45 minutes), Green Bay, WI (just over 3 hours), and Milwaukee, WI (5 hours).

READ NEXT : The Best Upper Peninsula Michigan Hikes For Families

Where to Stay in Munising with Kids

Families staying in Munising will find an array of options in this small Midwestern town. Firstly, consider AmericInn by Wyndham Wetmore Munising , featuring an indoor pool and waterslide, as well as a complimentary breakfast. Outdoor enthusiasts will love Northwoods Resort , offering cabins and cottages located on the sandy north-shore of Au Train Lake (just 15 minutes from downtown Munising). Families will also find a variety of campgrounds, as well as home rentals, through sites like Airbnb and VRBO . In fact, Paddler’s Village offers family-friendly glamping in yurts, safari tents, and other options! 

Book a hotel near Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan

Nashville, Indiana

If you’re looking for hidden gems in the Midwest, you’ll want to visit Nashville, Indiana. Located in Brown County , Nashville offers rolling hills, meadows, and wooded areas waiting to welcome you and your family!

Older kids will love playing a round of disc golf on a championship course at the Brown County Country Club. Or, enjoy the scenery on horseback. Brown County Saddle Barn offers trail rides ideal for adventurous families. Select from two tour types, a 35-minute tour, and a 60-minute tour. Outdoor kids will adore hiking along at Brown County State Park . With nearly 16,000 acres of rugged hills, ridges, and ravines, kids and adults alike will enjoy the sights and sounds of these natural lands. Challenge teens to the Seven Visita Challenge , a social media campaign offered by Brown County State Park. In town, soak in some music history at Bill Monroe’s Bluegrass Hall of Fame Museum .

Nearby City Pairs: Indianapolis, IN (1 hour), Colombus, OH (3.5 hours), and Chicago (4.5 hours).

Where to Stay in Nashville with Kids

Offering everything from B&Bs to hotels to camping, your family will find the perfect home base for your outdoor adventures in Nashville , Indiana. Stay inside Brown County State Park at Abe Martin Lodge and Cabin s , offering a cozy cabin experience. Then, Artists Colony Inn offers a centrally located stay downtown with breakfast included. The offers standard rooms, as well as three suites. Finally, those looking for a rustic camping experience will delight in staying at Camp Palawopec . Here, book a small open-air cabin with quick access to fishing, canoeing and kayaking, swimming, hiking, and more!

Top Hotels in Nashville, IN from $87 | Expedia – expedia.com

Shipshewana, Indiana

If your Midwest road trip with kids brings you through Indiana, don’t miss visiting Shipshewana . Here, you’ll experience the simplicity of Amish culture, as well as explore the great outdoors! Learn more about Amish culture with a tour from Buggy Lane Tours , where you can book anything from a short buggy ride through the countryside to tours of real working Amish farms.

Or, check out Dutch Creek Farm Animal P a rk , offering seasonal opportunities to meet and feed the animals. Located just 10 minutes from town, kids will adore this safari-style wagon ride and an animal encounter. Afterward, practice your mini-putt at Shipshe Pizza & Mini-Golf , a local favorite. Finally, a visit to Shipshewana isn’t complete without soaking in the sights, sounds, and busy activity of Shipshewana Trading Place Flea Market . As the largest flea market in the Midwest, it offers everything from fresh produce to art to crafts and antiques.

Nearby City Pairs: Chicago, IL (less than 2.5 hours), Indianapolis, IN (3 hours), and Colombus, OH (less than 4 hours).

Where to Stay in Shipshewana with Kids

Staying overnight in Shipshewana? You won’t be disappointed in your options! Families will find choices for hotels, cabins, camping, and more. Those needing a standard hotel stay will find everything they need from Van Buren Hotel At Shipshewana , including a fitness center, indoor pool, and complimentary refreshments. Or, check out Shipshewana North Park Amish Log Cabin Lodging & Campground for cabin and camping options. There is even a frozen custard stand on the property! Finally, Shipshewana Campground South Park is another option that allows camping and RV stays.

Shipshewana Auction and Flea Market vacation rentals .

Ste. Genevieve, Missouri

If you’re looking for unique places to visit in the Midwest featuring local wineries and craft beer, Ste. Genevieve , Missouri, is the place to be. In fact, Ste. Genevieve has an impressive history of winemaking, starting with their early French settlers.

You’ll find over a dozen wineries and breweries waiting to welcome you with glass in hand. From mom-and-pop wineries to the handcrafted beers and distillery of Crown Valley Brewing and Distilling , you’ll find the ideal place to toast your family. Then visit Baetje Farms , where kids can feed resident goats, while parents try farm-made artisanal cheese. As one of the best small towns to visit in the Midwest with kids, you won’t want to miss the Linden House , providing educational French Colonial Activities for the whole family. Finally, find endless fun on the water slides, lazy river, and zip-line at River Rapids Water Park !

Nearby City Pairs: St. Louis, MO (1 hour), Kansas City, MO (4.5 hours), and Indianapolis, IN (less than 5 hours).

Where to Stay in Ste. Genevieve with Kids

Find everything from hotels to B&Bs to family-friendly Airbnbs in Ste. Genevieve. Firstly, Hotel Audubon Grill & Bar offers a centrally located stay in the historic downtown area. You’ll even find a family-friendly chef-crafted menu and private dining options here. Those looking for a cozy B&B stay will adore Main Street Inn . With standard rooms and suites, you’ll find the ideal space for your stay. Finally, find an array of delightful Airbnbs in Ste. Genevieve , including Ms. Bettes Place .

Stillwater, Minnesota

Families looking for family-friendly vacation destinations in the Midwest will adore Stillwater , Minnesota. Nestled along the St. Croix River with quick access to the Twin Cities, kids will delight in exploring this historic town, offering everything from authentic paddlewheel riverboat tours to gondola rides. Stillwater is an ideal Midwest location for outdoor adventures, historical tours, and making memories.

Begin your stay with a 45-minute narrated Stillwater Trolley , where knowledgeable guides share local tales and lore. Then, walk across the historic lift bridge into Wisconsin. If you loved the view from the bridge, you’ll love the view from the water even more! Take a paddlewheel riverboat with Stillwater River Boats , offering public cruises and private charters. Need a new perspective? Rise into the air with a whimsical hot air balloon ride over Stillwater . Finally, your family can also explore the great outdoors in Stillwater by foot, bike, pontoon, or horseback.

Nearby City Pairs: St. Paul, MN (less than 30 minutes), Minneapolis, MN (30 Minutes), and Iowa City, IA (less than 5 hours).

Where to Stay in Stillwater with Kids

If your Midwest road trip with kids is headed to Minnesota, Stillwater is a great home base! Find comfort and luxury at Hotel Crosby . Located in the heart of downtown Stillwater, this hotel offers cozy rooms and suites, as well as a roof-top hot tub and on-site spa. Looking for a historic stay? Located on the Historic Registry, the Lowell Inn has been in operation since 1927 and offers an array of rooms and suites and fine dining options. Finally, get cozy at the Aurora Staples Inn . Just three blocks from downtown, this B&B provides Victorian-style rooms and suites.

Top 50 Stillwater Vacation Rentals | Vrbo.com

Happy Traveling!

We’re confident you found an amazing town or two on this list to visit on your Midwest road trip with kids. With so many family-friendly vacation destinations in the Midwest, narrowing down your options will be the hardest part of your vacation planning (which is why we compiled this list!). Outdoor adventures, historical tours, charming wineries, and more await you and your family on your family road trip. From Lake Superior to southern Illinois, there are so many amazing places to explore and make memories with your kids. Now, you just have to decide where you’re going to go! Happy traveling!

*Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, some of the places on this list may have reduced services or may temporarily close at times. Please ensure availability before making your decision.

*This post may contain affiliate links that may earn us a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links in no way inform the hotels, sights, products, or other recommendations included in our articles. All opinions and recommendations expressed here are compiled from submissions submitted by the generous members of our Families Who Love To Travel community.

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Midwest Road Trip Ideas: Fun Vacation Spots to Consider

Jennifer Kaufman

It’s time to start planning your 2023 Great American road trip . If you’re undecided about your destination, we’re suggesting you consider the natural beauty, magnificent cities and quirky pit stops you’ll find on a Midwest road trip.

Use one of the Midwest’s major cities – Chicago, St. Louis or Detroit – as your jumping off spot. Depending on the direction you choose you can explore the natural wonders of South Dakota or head north to a car-free Michigan island or get your Christmas thrills in mid-summer at a holiday-themed amusement park. Whatever you’re in the mood for, you’ll find it in the Midwest.

Our State-by-State Road Trip Guide to the Best Midwest Vacation Spots

A Midwest road trip offers the best choices for family vacations, from friendly big cities perfect for a Midwest weekend getaway to unique natural wonders you can only find in the middle of America.

This state-by-state guide includes our favorite Midwest vacation spots, from Ohio to South Dakota, with lots of great family friendly attractions in between.

Read More: Calling all nature lovers! The 9 best national parks in the Midwest

Midwest Road Trip: Illinois Destinations

Chicago, illinois.

Any Midwest road trip would be incomplete without a trip to the Windy City , with its countless ways to spend your time. Here four are of our favorite must-dos during a Midwest weekend getaway to Chicago :

Visit the Bean . The shining star of Chicago’s Millennium Park, snapping a selfie in the reflective surface of the giant sculpture is a Chicago must-do. (Even the locals do it!) If you can’t show that photo when you get home, no one will believe you visited Chicago!

Go shopping . The big draw is the world famous “Magnificent Mile,” Michigan Avenue’s shopping strip. Don’t forget to stop at the American Girl Store. Even if you don’t have a daughter, the huge, luxurious store is an experience.

Enjoy the lake . Spend some time strolling along Oak Street Beach, with the magnificent Lake Michigan on one side and some of Chicago’s priciest real estate on the other. Or take a boat ride that leaves from the family-friendly Navy Pier.  For a deep understanding of Chicago’s place as an architectural mecca, take the Chicago Architecture Foundation boat tour on the Chicago River. Kids love seeing the city from the river — and seeing the underside of the bridges over the river.

Visit Lincoln Park Zoo . One of the last free zoos in the USA , this lakefront gem has a children’s zoo, a lagoon where you can rent peddle boats and beautiful landscaped gardens. Don’t miss a stop at the Lincoln Park Conservatory on your way out of the zoo.

Eat . In Chicago, that means deep dish pizza or a Chicago hot dog. Just remember: No one over age 18 orders catsup on a hot dog in Chicago. If you do, everyone will know you’re an out-of-towner.

Oak Park, Illinois

Best known as the home of Frank Lloyd Wright, Oak Park is the first suburb west of Chicago and easy to get to via the Green Line on Chicago’s famous elevated train system. (It seems like just about every movie filmed in Chicago has at least one scene that takes place beneath the L tracks!)

Stop at the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio, then take the walking tour of the Wright-designed homes in the surrounding neighborhood.

Read More: How to Road Trip with a Baby – A Survival Guide for Parents

Great River Road Scenic Byway

More than 2,000 miles long, the Great River Road Scenic Byway runs along the Mississippi River through 10 states and hundreds of historic river towns.

That includes 33 miles from Hartford to Grafton, Illinois, where the road is known as the Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway. This drive is particularly beautiful in the fall when the trees turn vibrant shades of red, orange and yellow.

Read More:  How to Plan an Epic Family Road Trip in 5 Easy Steps 

Starved Rock State Park

This lovely state park is about 90 minutes west of Chicago. It’s a mecca for hikers and nature lovers. Trails wind along the gorgeous steep sandstone cliffs that line the Illinois River.

During the spring and early summer, it’s easy to find waterfalls along the hiking trails. You can camp there or spring for a stay at the Starved Rock Lodge.

Midwest Road Trip: Indiana Destinations

Indiana dunes national park.

The stunning sand dunes that line the southern tip of Lake Michigan were designated the USA’s 61st national park in February 2019. Indiana Dunes  has 15 miles of stunning beaches and huge dunes to climb.

The sand dunes and beautiful blue water look like something you’d see on the east coast – not something you’d find in a Midwest vacation spot. When you’re done playing on the beach, there are lots of craft breweries and local restaurants nearby.

Indianapolis, Indiana

This Midwest town is one of our favorites. It’s small enough to feel manageable, even to people who aren’t used to urban hustle and bustle, but big enough to offer plenty of fun.

Start at Indianapolis ’ White River State Park. Located right in the center of the city, it’s home to the Indianapolis Zoo, a minor league baseball stadium, the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art, the Indiana State Museum (check tickets) and the NCAA Headquarters and Hall of Champions, with lots of fun hands-on play for tweens and teens. Indy locals consider the river one of the city’s hidden gems .

Indianapolis is also home our hands-down, absolute favorite kids’ museum, the Indianapolis Children’s Museum. Already one of the world’s biggest and best, the museum has just expanded its dinosaur attraction, making it a must-stop destination for dino-loving families. Get a tickets pass to eight main attractions of Indianapolis. And then visit Indy Island, one of Indiana’s best indoor waterparks .

The city neighborhoods of this Midwest vacation spot are connected via biking trails that wind through its cultural districts.

SheBuysTravel Tip:  If you have a membership to a local museum or zoo, check to see whether it is a member of a reciprocity group before you head off on your family vacation. It could mean free entrance to museums and zoos during your trip as well! There are groups for  science museums ,  zoos and  cultural institutions .

Santa Claus, Indiana / Holiday World

It’s Christmastime year-round in Santa Claus, Indiana. Write a letter to Santa at the post office, or spend the day at the super family friendly theme park, Holiday World.

Who doesn’t love an entire theme park themed to Christmas?

Essential Item to Pack for a Road Trip? A Portable Espresso Maker for Coffee on the Go!

Midwest Road Trip: Iowa Destinations

SheBuysTravel contributor Nasreen Stump hit several cool Iowa spots on her journey across the Midwest and says she wishes she had planned more time there. From unique road side stops to outdoor fun that allows kids to be kids, Iowa had it all. Here’s our list of the best things to do in Iowa with kids.

Let the kids run off some road trip energy at Des Moines Pappajohn Sculpture Park. This park is located off of Grand Avenue and showcases more than 25 sculptures spread over more than 4 acres. Metered parking is readily available nearby.

Not only is this a great photo spot that teens will love for the Insta, but it’s got a hill in it that Nasreen’s kids rolled down over and over. Who said fun can’t be free!?

SheBuysTravel Tip: For the best parental experience,  grab a coffee down the street at Zanzibar’s Coffee Adventure. Then enjoy it at the sculpture park while your kids amuse themselves.

Located where Wisconsin, Illinois and Iowa meet, Dubuque is perfectly located for a Midwest road trip. It lets you easily hit more than one state!

While there is plenty to do in Dubuque, including an arboretum, aquarium and caves to explore, we highly recommend checking out the Fenelon Place Elevator (also called the Fourth Street Elevator). Technically a funicular, this elevator has been called the shortest, steepest scenic railway ride. You sit in a cable car for the ascent. Once you’re at the top, you’ll have a spectacular view of the Mississippi River and three states.

There is a small fee based on age which can you find here . Nasreen’s kids loved the story behind how it was built. It includes a wealthy man with a love of naps, which gave her and the kids a chuckle.

How often do you have the opportunity to feel like you’re visiting another country without leaving the Midwest? Elk Horn, Iowa, is home to the Museum of Danish America .

If you have older kids, let them roam the grounds and explore the museum. For kids under 12, the better stop is going to be the Danish Windmill . You’ll get some fun family photos and get to check out a working windmill. Originally built in Nørre Snede, Denmark in 1848, the windmill was brought to the United States in pieces and rebuilt by a team of volunteers in 1976.

The site also has a village replica, tiny chapel and gift shop full of fun items and things to eat. Head on to Kimballton (5 minutes away) next.

You may never have heard of tiny Kimballton. Iowa. but this town of fewer than 500 people is another great stop to explore Danish heritage in Iowa.

Kimballton is home to Hans Christian Andersen’s The Little Mermaid & Sculpture Gardens. This small park based around a fountain features a replica of the Little Mermaid statue in Copenhagen, Denmark. There are 8 more bronze sculptures representing stories by Andersen. Nasreen’s kids loved seeing these and talking about the original stories they were based on. It’s a good, quick stop for the whole family.

SheBuysTravel Tip: There’s a small playground nearby, so plan time for the kids to play.

Quad Cities

The Quad Cities include Bettendorf and Davenport in Iowa and Moline and Rock Island in Illinois. Rent a bike and ride the path along the Mississippi River.

Tractor-loving kids will require a visit to the free John Deere Pavilion in Moline. The Putnam Science Museum in Davenport is also a must-do. The whole family will demand home-made ice cream from Lagomarcino’s. Choose to stop at the downtown location, open since 1908.

Winterset, Iowa

Winterset is the home of legendary actor John Wayne, has a super fun sculpture park, and fun, family-friendly railroad attractions. Central Iowa is also the inspiration for The Bridges of Madison County.

Midwest Road Trip: Kansas Destinations

Kansas city, kansas.

The College Basketball Experience in  Kansas City is a slam dunk for families.

But our favorite thing to do in KC is the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures where it’s virtually guaranteed you’ll hear someone say, “Oh, I used to have that toy!”

Read More: Best Hotels in Salina, Kansas: The Little Town that Could!

Midwest Road Trip: Michigan Destinations

Whether you’re visiting gorgeous beach towns  on  Lake Huron , spending the winter with  sled dogs  in  Traverse City , touring the state capitol in Lansing or looking for the Northern Lights in Petoskey, there are so many delightful towns to visit in both the lower and upper peninsulas of Michigan. The state also offers a few unique Midwest vacation spots for your Midwest road trip.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Looking to visit both Wisconsin and Michigan in one trip? Make the travel more fun by crossing Lake Michigan on the SS Badger car ferry! 

Detroit, Michigan

If you haven’t been to Detroit lately, you haven’t been to Detroit. It is a city on the rise. Plan to spend a day at the beautiful Belle Isle Park, home to one of the oldest aquariums in North America. It’s small and free and well worth a look to show the kids how aquariums have changed over the years.

The Detroit Historical Society, a small but exceedingly well done museum, showcases the history of the town the automakers built. The Detroit Art Institute across the street is a world-class art museum with impressive special events.

And don’t miss a chance to eat a burger and fries at HopCat!

Holland, Michigan

Holland, Michigan may be the closest thing you can get to the Netherlands without traveling to Europe.

A large, authentic Dutch windmill is perhaps the highlight of a stop in this Midwest vacation spot but there also are Dutch restaurants, architecture tours, and even wooden shoe carving shows. If you visit in May, you’ll be treated to the Tulip Time Festival, too!

Mackinac Island, Michigan

This no-cars-allowed island between Michigan’s upper and lower peninsulas is probably the most famous Midwest vacation spot on our list.

Mackinac Island is home to the United States’ second-ever National Park. Mackinac Island National Park is 70 acres of forests, incredible rock formations, wildlife and beautiful water features, as well as historical and cultural landmarks. And it’s a wonderful place to explore on bicycles because you don’t have to dodge cars!

Before you go, practice saying the name. It’s pronounced Mack-i-naw even though it’s spelled Mackinac. And it’s definitely worth a visit, even if you can only spend one day on Mackinac Island.

Saugatuck/Douglas, Michigan

Long the playground of wealthy Chicagoans looking to beat the city heat each summer, there is a wealth of fun outdoors things to do in Saugatuck and neighboring Douglas. Topping that list is a visit to Oval Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches on Lake Michigan.

It’s no wonder this small town was named the “Best Beach Town in the Midwest” for 2021 by  Midwest Living magazine .

Traverse City, Michigan

This foodie town sits on the banks of Grand Traverse Bay and is the gateway to Sleeping Bear Dunes (check out available tours) , one of the most beautiful beaches anywhere in the world. Really.

Feed your hungry teens anything cherry — from cherry jam to cherry burgers.

Midwest Road Trip: Minnesota Destinations

Duluth, minnesota.

Duluth , like many of the Great Lakes towns on this Midwest family vacations list, offers lots of outdoor activities for families. It is also home to Great Lakes Aquarium, the only freshwater aquarium in the US.

And, yes, it’s even fun to visit Duluth in winter.

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Home to the Mall of America ( which may be reason enough to visit ), Minneapolis and its sister city, St. Paul, have so much to offer visitors. Explore the largest mall in the US, or enjoy a number of theater performances.

Hike to Minnehaha Falls or explore miles of nature trails along the Mississippi River. It’s also one of the most affordable family vacations in the Midwest, with lots of free things to do with kids.

Midwest Road Trip: Missouri Destinations

Branson, missouri.

Branson, Missouri , is a fun and affordable vacation destination with beautiful lakes and mountains as well as fun shows and theme parks.

Silver Dollar City is a family-friendly park themed to an old mining town. Choose from more than 40 rides and live entertainment.

Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri

“The Strip” at  Lake of the Ozarks offers your typical tourist fare: gift shops, arts and crafts, fudge and candy factories and the like. But it’s the beautiful lake (with more than 50 marinas), a collection of golf courses, horseback trails, boat tours through caverns and tours of mansions (both current and historic) that makes this a worthy Midwest vacation spot that will keep you busy for as long as you want to stay.

St. Louis, Missouri

St. Louis  is one of our favorite Midwest getaway spots. Less than 6 hours from Cincinnati, Chicago, Indianapolis, Kansas City, Des Moines, Milwaukee, Louisville, Nashville, Tulsa and Memphis, it may be the most centrally located destination on this list.

You’ll want to visit the Gateway Arch, of course, but plan to spend some time at Forest Park. It’s larger than New York’s Central Park and home to a free zoo and a number of free museums. There’s also the Anheuser-Busch Brewery and Grant’s Farm and the eclectic, one-of-a-kind City Museum.

There’s a really fun and trendy waterfront area (Laclede’s Landing), plus an aquarium and lots of stuff for sports lovers, including taking in a Cardinals game at Busch Stadium.

St. Charles, Missouri

Just a half hour’s drive from St. Louis is charming and historic St. Charles.

Celebrate car culture with a stop at Fast Lane Classic Cars to ogle the 200 classic and muscle cars on display. Or forget about your car for a while and hop on board the St. Charles Trolley to ride the 30 minute loop around town. Download the app to track where the trolley is so you’ll know how long you’ll need to wait for a ride. The best part? It’s free!

Midwest Road Trip: Nebraska Destinations

Omaha, nebraska.

Omaha as a must-do for foodies. It is one of the nicest, cleanest and most hospitable family vacation spots in the Midwest – especially in the spring when the weather is perfect.

Don’t miss the opportunity in Omaha for your kids to stand in two states at once! Check Omaha experiences here . Even though it was pouring rain, SheBuysTravel contributor Nasreen Stump said her kiddos still thought it was one of the coolest things they did on their Midwest road trip.

There is plenty of parking on the Omaha side of the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge. You can walk to the middle of the bridge and straddle the state line between Nebraska and Iowa. Activities for kids exist on both sides of the bridge.

Midwest Road Trip: Ohio Destinations

Cincinnati, ohio.

Like the other large cities on this list, Cincinnati offers far too many attractions to really cover here. World-class museums, one of the best zoos in the country, several professional sports teams and a vast history are only a handful of the reasons to visit the Queen City.

Check out the best nightlife options in Cincinnati and these fun  free things to do in Cincinnati.

Cleveland, Ohio

The most famous attraction in  Cleveland, Ohio  is probably the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum. Even my kids, who didn’t know half of the artists, found plenty of interesting things to see and do.

Don’t miss a stop at the fun hands-on Great Lakes Science Center next door. Save a few bucks by buying the combo ticket admission to both the hall of fame and science center.

While you’re in Cleveland, you should also check out the beautifully revitalized Little Italy neighborhood or catch a Cavaliers game.

Hocking Hills, Ohio

Travel less than an hour from Columbus, Ohio’s capital city, and you’ll find yourself at the beginning of Appalachia.

Hocking Hills State Park has some of the area’s best hiking for families. We’ve taken young kids there on paved trails and spent time on more difficult hikes with older kids and adults. For adventure seekers, there’s zip lining.

This Midwest vacation spot is also home to caves, waterfalls and cultural and historic attractions. Small lakes offer boating (pontoon and human-powered craft such as kayaks or canoes only) and water sports.

Sandusky/Lake Erie Shore, Ohio

Sandusky, Ohio , is home to Cedar Point, which bills itself at the Roller Coaster Capital of the World. We agree. It’s where we took our kids to teach them to love roller coasters! Start with the smaller, tamer coasters and work your way up the Top Thrill Dragster — a steel coaster that reaches speeds of 120 mph as it shoots you straight up, then crawls over the top to wind straight back down, all in 17 seconds.

There are also four indoor waterpark resorts and beautiful beaches along Lake Erie. From Sandusky, take a ferry to Kelleys Island or South Bass Island’s Put-in-Bay. On these Lake Erie islands, take a cave tour, go fishing or climb the Marblehead Lighthouse in Port Clinton for spectacular views.

Warren County, Ohio

You can also take a scenic train ride to Lebanon , the county seat of Warren County – “Ohio’s Largest Playground.” Here you’ll find a charming downtown area with some of the country’s best antiques shopping.

You can even dine – or stay overnight – at the Historic Golden Lamb Inn & Restaurant . Opened in 1803, the Golden Lamb has hosted 12 US presidents and dozens of other US and world dignitaries.

Midwest Road Trip: South Dakota Destinations

Driving through South Dakota is THE iconic Midwest road trip. Start with a stop in Wall, South Dakota, to gawk at the incredibly touristy Wall Drug, wind through the breathtaking Badlands National Park , see Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills, pay your respects to Crazy Horse , then watch the buffalo roam at Custer State Park .

Consider staying in Rapid City. It’s centrally located to all of the South Dakota attractions. If you’re driving through North Dakota, you’ll find a bunch of free things to do in Grand Forks.

The Corn Palace

This kitschy stop is in Mitchell and it’s a must-do if you’re traveling I-90 across Iowa. It’s been operating since 1892 and is exactly what it sounds like: a reason to get people to pull off the highway and visit Mitchell. Every year, artists decorate the outside of the building with 325,000 ears of corn.

A visit is free, but bring your wallet. The kids will want to buy some of the corn-y souvenirs and treats.

Badlands National Park

Take the Badlands Loop Road (Highway 240) and stop often to ogle the Instagrammable rock formations, steep canyons and towering spires of  Badlands National Park . Watch for bison, bighorn sheep, prairie dogs and other protected wildlife.

Mount Rushmore

Look up President Washington’s nose (really!) as you hike around Mount Rushmore . That’s the national park where the busts of four presidents — George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln — are carved into the side of the  Black Hills Mountains . This Midwest vacation spot draws more than 3 million visitors every year.

Custer State Park

You can hike, fish and be wowed by Needles Highway here. But the biggest reason to visit Custer State Park is the chance to stop the car and watch the herd of 1,300 grazing buffalo on the Wildlife Loop.

Crazy Horse Monument

Unlike the other South Dakota attractions, Crazy Horse is a private endeavor run by a nonprofit. The project was started by Korczak Ziolkowski in 1948. It’s still far from finished.

Read More: Fun things to do in Chattanooga Tennessee with kids .

Midwest Road Trip: Wisconsin Destinations

Madison, wisconsin.

Madison is the capital of Wisconsin and it’s a rockin’ college town. Take the free tour of the beautiful capitol building, then walk across the street to browse through the (also free) Wisconsin Veterans Museum.

On Saturdays from April to November, the capital is circled with a huge farmers’ market selling everything from veggies to the must-try Wisconsin cheese curds. (You know they’re fresh if they squeak when you bite into them.)

Here’s our list of the best things to do in Madison , including eating some of Wisconsin’s famous cheese curds. Never skip the cheese curds!

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Milwaukee, Wisconsin combines a beautiful beach on Lake Michigan with the hustle and bustle of an urban center. Visit the world-class Milwaukee Art Museum and take the little ones to the Betty Brinn Children’s Museum and school-age kids to Discovery World.

Motorcycle fans can visit Harley-Davidson Museum, and Milwaukee visitors can take part in several festivals throughout the year – including Summerfest, one of the world’s largest music festivals.

Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin

About an hour north of Milwaukee,  Elkhart Lake is a lovely, serene family vacation spot in the Midwest. Several hotels nestle along the shores of the lake, where the calm water tends to be much warmer than Lake Michigan. We love the beautiful Osthoff Resort which has a number of wonderful restaurants. Race fans will want to plan a visit to Race America to watch a race or take a track driving course.

Green Bay , Wisconsin

Green Bay is best known as the home of the powerhouse Green Bay Packers American football team, which is celebrated at the new Titletown complex.

But Green Bay also is the gateway to Door County. Known as the Cape Cod of the Midwest, Door County is famous for its small towns along the bay and its fish boils.

Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells calls itself the “ water park capital of the world .” While we love the giant indoor Kalahari Waterpark any time and the giant outdoor Noah’s Ark waterpark in the summertime, there’s much more to do there than just water slides.

Much like a visit to Branson, Missouri, or Gatlinburg, Tennessee, you’ll find a plethora of go-kart tracks, live dinner shows and boat tours. Don’t miss a ride on the famous Duck Boats! Away from the hustle and bustle of those tourist destinations though, you’ll also find plenty of water sports and hiking in the Dells’ three nearby state parks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the best time of year to take a Midwest road trip?

A: The best time to take a Midwest road trip is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is warm and the attractions are open. However, if you’re interested in fall foliage, consider visiting in September or October.

Q: How long should I plan for a Midwest road trip?

A: It depends on how many stops you want to make and how much time you have. For a comprehensive Midwest road trip, plan for at least 2-3 weeks. However, if you’re short on time, you can still hit some of the highlights in a week or less.

Q: What are some must-see attractions on a Midwest road trip?

A: Some must-see attractions on a Midwest road trip include Mount Rushmore, the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, the Mackinac Bridge in Michigan, and the Wisconsin Dells.

Q: Is it safe to travel to the Midwest?

A: Yes, the Midwest is generally a safe place to travel. However, as with any destination, it’s important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.

Q: What are some budget-friendly options for a Midwest road trip?

A: Some budget-friendly options for a Midwest road trip include camping instead of staying in hotels, packing your own food instead of eating out, and visiting free attractions like state parks and museums.

3 responses

Kansas City is in Missouri…

As someone who’s traveled all over the Midwest with kids, I have to say – this is an excellent list!

Thanks so much! There really is so much to do in the region – especially with families!

• Last Updated On
• September 14, 2023

Road Trips Around The Midwest: Discover Charming Towns and Scenic Routes

Ready to roll on road trips around the Midwest with your family?

You might have a few butterflies, and that’s okay.

You’ve got a friend in me to guide you to the Midwest’s top spots, promising you a trip filled with joy and devoid of stress.

From landscapes that leave you speechless to cities pulsating with life, the Midwest is a treasure trove waiting to be uncovered.

With a touch of expert wisdom, you’ll be charting out the perfect journey, uncovering hidden charms, and maximizing every moment spent in this wondrous region.

So, cozy up, pick your drink of choice, and let’s unfurl the map to your family’s dream Midwest escape.

Key Takeaways

• Discover top destinations and hidden gems in the Midwest for an unforgettable family road trip.
• Engage in various outdoor activities, indulge in local food and drinks, and immerse yourself in the region’s rich culture and history.
• Leverage expert travel tips and resources to ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience throughout your journey.

Road Trips Around The Midwest: Top Destinations

Iowa Attractions

Planning a family trip in the Midwest?

Don’t overlook Iowa.

Start in Des Moines: visit the Iowa State Capitol for a delightful historical experience.

Don’t miss the charming Bridges of Madison County in Winterset, where you can walk through enchanting covered bridges and enjoy the picturesque surroundings.

Discover Dubuque with its beautiful bluffs and historical landmarks, not to mention the lovely Mississippi River views.

Wisconsin Wonders

Wisconsin offers marvels perfect for families in search of adventure.

Begin in Milwaukee to explore fascinating museums and Lake Michigan beaches.

Then, head to Door County to enjoy scenic cliff landscapes, numerous state parks, and lovely lighthouses.

Make your way to Green Bay to catch a football game and experience the energetic fan culture.

Michigan Marvels

Michigan is rich in natural wonders and cultural gems.

Traverse City’s stunning beaches, forests, and wineries are not to be missed.

Stroll along Lake Michigan’s shoreline and discover picturesque lighthouses.

Want to treat your family to a dreamy island escape?

Mackinac Island provides a charming car-free setting, perfect for an unforgettable adventure.

Illinois Highlights

Illinois is the perfect destination for families seeking a mix of nature, history, and city vibes.

Starting in Chicago, enjoy its world-class museums, parks, and exciting food scene.

Drive along the iconic Route 66 from Chicago to St. Louis, stopping in Springfield to explore fascinating historical sites.

Head to Starved Rock State Park for breathtaking natural beauty, including gorgeous waterfalls and forested trails.

Ohio Adventures

Ohio offers a variety of attractions that cater to every family member’s interests.

Explore Cleveland’s museums, or stroll through Columbus’s delightful parks.

A stop at the family-friendly amusement park Cedar Point is a must for thrill-seekers, young and old.

Scenic South Dakota

South Dakota’s Black Hills is home to the awe-inspiring Mount Rushmore – a perfect stop on your Midwest road trip.

Don’t forget to visit Badlands National Park, Wind Cave National Park, and Rapid City to round out your South Dakota experience.

Missouri Gems

St. Louis is a fantastic starting point for any Missouri adventure.

Check out the iconic Gateway Arch, then venture to Kansas City for its vibrant arts scene and mouth-watering BBQ.

Don’t forget to visit some of Missouri’s beautiful state parks on your journey.

Indiana Spots

A trip to Indiana would be incomplete without a visit to Indianapolis, its exciting capital city.

Be sure to discover Indiana Dunes National Park along Lake Michigan, offering sandy beaches, rolling dunes, and forest trails.

Minnesota Magic

Discover bustling Minneapolis and its famed art scene before venturing up the scenic North Shore to the dazzling Great Portage.

Gooseberry Falls State Park offers majestic waterfalls and jaw-dropping fall foliage, making Minnesota an unforgettable Midwest destination.

North Dakota Discoveries

Start in Fargo and make your way to the captivating Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota.

Explore the wide-open spaces, stunning landscapes, and countless adventure opportunities.

Nebraska Excursions

Omaha is home to a vibrant arts scene, while Lincoln boasts fascinating museums, parks, and lovely neighborhoods.

Don’t pass up the Great Outdoors in Nebraska – visit the breathtaking Platte River and Sandhills region for an authentic Midwest experience.

Kansas Charms

Kansas offers delightful small towns, beautiful state parks, and bustling cities.

Start in Kansas City and explore its arts scene, then venture on to the Flint Hills, Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, or the beautiful Bleeding Kansas historical sites.

Top Attractions in the Major Midwest States

Outdoor Activities

Parks and waterfalls.

The Midwest is filled with diverse landscapes, making it ideal for exploring parks and waterfalls.

One of the best things to do in the Midwest is to explore Custer State Park, where you’ll find stunning geological formations and bison roam.

State parks, like those near Lake Superior, often feature waterfalls cascading down bluffs, creating breathtaking photo opportunities.

Beaches and Lighthouses

If you prefer water and coastal views, head to the shores of Lake Superior.

Here, you’ll find beautiful beaches perfect for family picnics and even lighthouse tours.

One gem worth checking out is Mackinac Island, with its charming village and car-free lifestyle.

It’s a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle, and your family will love ferrying to the island.

National Scenic Byways

Did you know that the Midwest boasts some of the most scenic drives in the US?

The Mother Road, also known as Route 66 , has gorgeous landscapes and vibrant roadside attractions.

You may also explore the Great River Road, a National Scenic Byway that follows the Mississippi River, where you’ll witness a wide variety of natural wonders along the way.

Fishing and Forests

For the anglers in your family, the Midwest has plenty of options.

From the countless lakes and rivers to serene forest settings, you’re bound to find your perfect fishing spot.

The expansive Black Hills region offers you a chance to connect with nature through fishing, camping, and hiking through the lush forests.

Wildlife Watching

Last but not least, don’t miss out on the opportunity to observe the Midwest’s diverse wildlife.

Bison are an iconic sight in the region, and elk can be found grazing throughout various natural habitats.

Keep your camera ready, as there’s always a chance to spot some fascinating wildlife amidst the beautiful Midwest landscapes.

Food and Drink

Midwest cuisine.

Ah, the flavors of the Midwest.

You and your family will delight in hearty and diverse local dishes throughout your trip.

Make sure not to miss out on cheese curds , an absolute must-try.

With their tasty, squeaky, and deep-fried glory, they’re a classic staple that’ll absorb the heart of the Midwest.

But hey, we’re talking about food here.

Don’t be afraid to taste your way through the region’s diverse culinary offerings, from Chicago’s deep-dish pizza, smoky Kansas City barbecue, to satisfying Detroit-style Coney dogs.

Get ready to treat your taste buds and create some amazing memories filled with shared laughs and fulfilled cravings.

Wine and Beer Tasting

Alright, let’s talk about libations.

The Midwest is not only about comfort food, but it’s also a haven for wine and craft beer aficionados.

While embarking on your road trip through picturesque wine country, you’ll find gorgeous vineyards along the Great River Road in Wisconsin and Michigan’s Leelanau Peninsula.

You get the best of both worlds: beautiful landscapes and that sought-after nectar of the gods.

Now onto beer, the Midwest has your back.

With a wide variety of craft beer breweries, there’s something for every beer lover in your family (of legal drinking age, of course).

From Goose Island Brewery in Chicago to Founders Brewing in Michigan, dive into mouth watering brews that’ll excite and refresh the palate.

Travel Tips and Resources

Planning a Midwest road trip can be an amazing experience filled with natural beauty, historic landmarks, and outdoor adventures.

To help you get started, let’s explore some essential travel tips and resources to make your journey unforgettable.

When it comes to accommodations, finding the right place to stay is key on a family road trip.

The best hotels in the Midwest caters to families and provide top-notch amenities.

Summer is the ideal time to experience the Midwest’s stunning beaches and vibrant cities.

Whether you’re hitting the popular Route 66, exploring the flourishing city of Madison, or visiting iconic destinations like Mount Rushmore or Duluth, make sure to pack for warm weather and potential rain showers.

If family fun is what you seek, you won’t be disappointed with Midwest road trips.

Beaches on Lake Michigan offer pristine sands and picturesque lighthouses that make for fantastic photo opportunities.

Cities like Indy, Traverse City, Minneapolis, and Omaha cater to families with attractions such as zoos, museums, and amusement parks.

Speaking of natural beauty, the Midwest is known for its prairies filled with adorable prairie dogs, lush forests, and shimmering lakes.

Make a stop at Forest Park while on your journey and immerse yourself in the region’s breathtaking landscapes.

No Midwest road trip is complete without sampling the local flavors.

Indulge in mouthwatering BBQ, succulent seafood, and soulful blues music along your route.

Be sure to try regional specialties like the iconic Louisville Hot Brown sandwich.

For a unique roadside attraction, don’t miss the Gemini Giant, a 30-foot-tall fiberglass statue on Route 66 in Illinois.

Grand Traverse, on the other hand, offers beautiful wine country landscapes and charming small towns, perfect for a family day trip.

Culture and History

Ah, the Midwest – a treasure trove of culture and history waiting to be explored by you and your family.

As you embark on your road trip, you’ll come across some fascinating and diverse attractions.

Museums are a staple of Midwest culture.

Chicago alone boasts a bevy of world-renowned institutions, from the Art Institute of Chicago to the Field Museum.

As you continue your journey through the region, feast your eyes on the astonishing variety of collections.

You’ll find everything from air and space exhibits in Iowa to the celebratory Harley-Davidson Museum in Milwaukee.

There’s a museum for every taste and curiosity.

When you first think of the Midwest, street art may not spring to mind.

But prepare to be surprised.

Public art adorns the walls in colorful cities throughout this region.

For instance, the famous Route 66 in Illinois offers a delightful mix of vintage murals and modern pieces.

So, as you cruise through these friendly cities, keep an eye out with your camera ready to capture these hidden gems.

Education in the Midwest holds secrets from the past.

Many states house important national monuments and historical landmarks, revealing the region’s rich tapestry.

From Mount Rushmore in South Dakota to the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, the Midwest provides endless opportunities for contextual learning.

Bring the textbooks to life as you and your family uncover layers of American history.

Parting Words

There you have it, a glimpse of some amazing road trips around the Midwest that your family can embark on for your next adventure.

With so many picturesque landscapes and fascinating attractions, the Midwest offers a little something for everyone.

Remember to plan ahead, pack plenty of snacks, and, most importantly, enjoy the journey.

There’s no doubt that the memories you create along the way will be cherished for years to come.

Feel free to throw in a few spontaneous stops along the way because sometimes the best experiences are the ones you never planned.

Related: What is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Midwest

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top family-friendly destinations in the midwest.

There are plenty of family-friendly destinations in the Midwest, but some of the most popular spots include the Black Hills in South Dakota, which features Mount Rushmore, and the picturesque Door County in Wisconsin. You and your family will love exploring these beautiful areas together.

Which Michigan Attractions Are Perfect For A Road Trip?

When it comes to Michigan attractions, you should definitely check out the stunning Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore as well as Traverse City, a charming destination known for its vineyards and beaches. Both destinations are perfect for a scenic and memorable road trip with your loved ones.

How Can I Plan A 7-Day Road Trip Around The Midwest?

To make the most of a 7-day Midwest road trip, start by selecting a few key destinations that interest you, such as the Black Hills or Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Then, plan your driving route, book accommodations, and make a list of activities at each stop. This will ensure a fun and well-organized trip for you and your family.

What Are Some Budget-Friendly Midwest Road Trip Ideas?

For a budget-friendly Midwest road trip, consider visiting state parks and attractions that offer free admission, such as the beautiful Great River Road along the Mississippi River. Additionally, opt for affordable accommodations like camping or motels, and pack snacks to save on dining expenses.

Where Can I Find Unique Food Experiences On A Midwest Road Trip?

As you embark on your Midwest road trip, don’t miss the chance to indulge in some local cuisine. For a tasty and unique food experience, try regional favorites like deep-dish pizza in Chicago or BBQ in Kansas City. You’ll love discovering new flavors and dishes while exploring the Midwest.

Postcard Narrative

The Proof is in the Postcard

7 Fun and Affordable Midwest Road Trips from Wisconsin

Roll down your windows, feel the breeze and prepare for an adventure that’s as vast and varied as the Midwest sky. Welcome to our guide on the best Midwest road trips for families, where every turn uncovers a new surprise – be it a agricultural gem in Wisconsin, a construction loving kids’ dream in Illinois, a wonder filled aquarium in Iowa, a cascading waterfall in Minnesota, a sandy dune in Michigan, a bustling speedway in Indiana, or a majestic arch in Missouri. 

As we journey through these seven states, we’ll discover that the Midwest is not just “fly-over” country. No, my friends, it’s drive-through country! Buckle up, grab your snacks, and let’s hit the road. 

Prepare to experience the charm, beauty, and hidden gems of this remarkable region with our tried and true list of family-friendly Midwest road trips.

Sheboygan to Mackinac Island 

From Sheboygan’s lakeside charm to the timeless allure of Mackinac Island and beyond, this Midwest Road Trip itinerary stitches together several of Wisconsin and Michigan’s top destinations

Wisconsin Stops

The first stop will be in Sheboygan, home to the Bookworm Gardens , a magical, literature-inspired botanical garden where your children’s favorite stories come alive among lush flowers and whimsical sculptures.

As you journey onward, visit Titletown in Green Bay , where kids can scramble up Ariens Hill, conquer three playscapes, play ball on a full size football field and parents can relax with a local brew in hand.

Upper Michigan Stops

As the route carries you into Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, you’ll pass through Escanaba , a quaint harbor town where fresh whitefish is always on the menu. Stop into town for Swedish Pancakes at the Swedish Pantry and walk across the street to pickup some fresh homemade fudge.

Not far from here lies Kitch-iti-kipi , Michigan’s largest natural freshwater spring, where crystal clear waters offer a window into an underwater world teeming with trout. It is suitably nicknamed “mirror of heaven” and well worth the 30 minute detour it adds to your drive time. There is a small viewing raft you can ride to the center of the spring to gaze into the depths of the spring below. (Free.)

As you continue your journey, you’ll be in awe of the stunning beauty of Pictured Rocks National Seashore and the breathtaking power of Tahquamenon Waterfall.

And finally, you’ll arrive at the highlight of the trip – the incredible Mackinac Island . Imagine stepping back in time as horse-drawn carriages clatter along cobblestone streets, and the aroma of world-famous fudge wafts through the air. Reaching the island requires a ferry ride from Mackinac City.

Insider travel tip: If you are prepared to splurge, the Grand Hotel is the crown jewel of the island. It dons the world’s largest front porch.

The adventure doesn’t have to end there. This is a choose your own adventure decision point as it is about the same amount of travel time to turn around and return the same way. Or we’ll continue south and take a ferry across to Manitowoc.

Mainland Michigan Stops

If you chose the latter, the next stop is Petoskey State Park , where the kids can scour the shores for Michigan’s state stone, the Petoskey. My kids think they look like dinosaur eggs.

Then, it’s on to Sleeping Bear Dunes for a heart-pumping climb and a stunning view over Lake Michigan.

As twilight descends, pull into the Cherry Bowl Drive-In Theater for a dose of nostalgia and a family movie under the stars.

The journey concludes with a relaxing ferry ride across Lake Michigan from the Ludington Ferry Terminal, winding down a road trip that’s sure to etch itself into your family’s core memory bank.

What are you waiting for? Pack up the car and create some memories on one of our favorite Midwest road trips!

Milwaukee to St. Louis

Embarking on a road trip from Milwaukee to St. Louis is a journey filled with diverse landscapes, charming small towns, and iconic landmarks. The distance of about 375 miles offers a unique blend of urban hustle and rural tranquility with endless educational opportunities.

The Gateway City’s vibrant food scene and family-friendly attractions made St. Louis a laid back and unforgettable family getaway. 

I have a detailed post with all of our favorite stops along this route.  Check out our suggestions on how to break up the 6 hour trip between Milwaukee and St. Louis . 

Wausau to Duluth

This Midwest road trip itinerary starts from Wausau and you’ll make your way to enchanting Duluth , experiencing the natural beauty of the region along the way.

Get ready to explore stunning attractions like Copper Falls State Park, Apostle Islands National Seashore, and Amnicon Falls State Park.

But that’s not all! Our journey doesn’t end there. We’ll also visit Gooseberry Falls State Park and Split Rock Lighthouse State Park, just outside Duluth. And let’s not forget the vibrant cities we’ll encounter, like Duluth itself. Don’t miss out on the Lake Superior Railroad Museum and Great Lakes Aquarium!

This trip is perfect for both kids and adults, promising an unforgettable adventure through the Midwest’s charming towns and breathtaking landscapes. Click here for the full route and guide.

Milwaukee, Wisconsin to Holland, Michigan

I grew up on the west side of Lake Michigan and didn’t experience a sunset over the Great Lake until I was in my 30s. It is something to behold, I felt as if I was on a soft sandy beach on the Gulf of Mexico.

If you love sand, sunsets, beer, and charming towns, this Midwest Road Trip is for you.

Welcome to our road trip adventure from the bustling city of Milwaukee to the charming town of Holland, Michigan. Each stop along our journey offers its unique blend of attractions that both children and adults will adore.

In Holland , enjoy the town’s rich Dutch heritage, marvel at the authentic windmill at Windmill Island Gardens and savoring a pint or two from the local breweries, while the kids enjoy root beer and pretzels.

Saugatuck is famed for its Oval Beach, one of the top 25 beaches in the world, as ranked by Condé Nast Traveler, is a haven of golden sands and crystal clear waters.

South Haven and St. Joseph , with their picturesque lighthouses and serene beaches, offer a tranquil escape, while the Southwest Michigan Wine Trail is a feast for the senses, boasting some of the region’s finest wineries. The vineyards also offer grape juice tasting for the young ones, making it a fun-filled family experience.

Finally, the Indiana Dunes , with their towering sand dunes and diverse wildlife, offer a perfect mix of education and recreation. It’s a place where children can learn about nature while running free, building sandcastles, and splashing in the water.

Central Wisconsin Gems

Central Wisconsin, with its well kept secrets of natural beauty, rich history, and family-friendly attractions, is the perfect route for an unforgettable road trip.

Start your journey in Oshkosh, where you’ll find the delightful, free Menominee Park and Zoo , a favorite among families. While in Oshkosh, consider grabbing a lunch at a drive in diner with carhops on roller-skates; Ardy and Ed’s .

Just up the road, you’ll find iconic Wisconsin breweries, like Central Waters Brewing and Steven’s Point Brewery (one of the oldest in the country).

Next, immerse yourselves in nature at Schmeeckle Reserve’s tranquil trails and marvel at the mystically quirky Rudolph Grotto Gardens . Next, visit Jurustic Park , home to a fascinating collection of ‘prehistoric’ metal sculptures. Rudolph Grotto Gardens and Jurustic are both one of a kind attractions, so unique that they’ve been featured in Atlas Obscura!

As you head south, don’t pass Osseo without tasting the legendary pies at Norske Nook !

Experience the thrill of harvest season at Wetherby Cranberry Farm , then head to Wisconsin Dells , the “ Waterpark Capital of the World “.

Continue your journey at the Ishnala Supper Club , offering mouthwatering dishes amid breathtaking views. You can expect to wait for a table so your best bet is to arrive when they open at 3:30 on weekdays. (Closed during the winter.)

Head next door to explore the serene beauty of Mirror Lake State Park and the magic of the Baraboo Circus Museum.

Go for a hike! Check out Parfrey’s Glen , Devil’s Lake , or Pewit’s Nest , each offering its own unique charm.

Don’t miss the Merrimac Ferry , Wisconsin’s only free ferry, before ending your Wisconsin Midwest road trip.

COVID and my parents’ collective health kept me close to home for a couple years which gave me the opportunity to explore my home state and discover gems I’d never expected; many of my favorites are on this route.

Milwaukee to Dubuque

A road trip that combines the charm of small-town America, the thrill of outdoor adventures, and the childhood excitement of interactive museums.

As you drive west through Wisconsin, the landscape transforms from urban sprawl to scenic countryside, with the Toy Train Barn Museum being your first stop. Featured in Atlas Obscura, this hidden gem houses a fascinating collection of miniature trains that will ignite your children’s imaginations. The best part about it is chatting with the couple who owns the museum. The man is a genius and the wife a saint.

Next, defy the laws of physics at Gravity Hill, a mysterious spot where your car will seem to roll uphill . It’s a strange phenomenon caused by optimal illusion.

Prepare to laugh with your whole family during your unusual hiking experience with goats in Galena, IL.

The Alpine Slide near Rice is a thrilling ride down a 2,050-foot track. Dubuque’s River Museum and Aquarium offers an immersive look at the Mississippi’s aquatic life.

On a rainy day, the Creative Adventure Lab in Dubuque provides the perfect indoor escape with interactive exhibits designed to spark creativity.

And for a touch of history, take a ride on the Fenelon Place Elevator , one of the world’s shortest and steepest scenic railways.

A detour to the Field of Dreams movie site is a must for any baseball fan. And when you arrive at the Quad Cities, where the Family Museum in Davenport and the John Deere Pavilion in Moline offer educational and entertaining diversions.

End your day with a meal at Twin Span Brewing , recommended for its craft beers and kid-friendly atmosphere.

The final leg of your journey takes you back to Milwaukee, with a pit stop at the Children’s Museum in Rockford .

Join me as we delve deeper into each destination , uncovering more of what makes this Midwest road trip a fantastic choice for families looking for educational and unforgettable memories.

Milwaukee to Minneapolis

Minnesota’s Twin Cities, Minneapolis and St. Paul are chock full of family friendly attractions that won’t break the bank. 

There’s much to see along the Midwest road trip route to the Twin Cities so consider breaking up your journey with one or more of these kid-approved stops packed with intrigue, energy busters, and delicious food. 

Roadside Stops:

Run out some energy at Aztalan State Park near Johnson Creek before cranking out a big chunk of the route.  While the little ones are running, big kids and adults can soak in the rich history of one of the state’s most significant archaeological sites.   

This National Historic Landmark showcases  an ancient Middle-Mississippian village that thrived between A.D. 1000 and 1300. The settlement was mysteriously abandoned sometime between 1200 and 1300 CE, leaving behind a wealth of cultural artifacts and historical intrigue. The name ‘Aztalan’ was given by early settlers who mistakenly believed the site had links to the Aztecs.

Restock your car snack supply and taste the abundant cheese and fudge samples in this fun Wisconsin shop with a giant mouse called Mousehouse Cheesehaus.

Madison, Wisconsin

Take a brief detour to find Madison Family Fun. You’ll find a handful of family-friendly activities that can be completed in less than two hours.

A quick stop at the Henry Vilas Zoo , which offers free admission, is a must-do. It’s home to hundreds of exotic species from around the globe and also includes a children’s zoo and a carousel. Spend an hour or two at the Madison Children’s Museum, a hands-on learning experience that encourages curiosity and imagination with exhibits on art, culture, and science. For outdoorsy families, a stroll through the Olbrich Botanical Gardens offers stunning visuals with a variety of beautiful themed gardens.

Lastly, you could treat the kids to a scoop of homemade ice cream at the Memorial Union Terrace , while enjoying lakeside views of Lake Mendota.

Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

Family fun is plentiful in Wisconsin Dells. With so many options to choose from, it’s a challenge to pick just one destination for a road trip stop. However, here are a few places that have been excellent pit stops for our family while passing through.

Go Karting – Give your adrenaline loving kid a thrill that doesn’t consume much time at all!  Stop by Adare or Big Chief Go Karts for a quick race.

Mini Golf – Play a round of themed mini golf at Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf to get the whole family some sunshine, movement, and healthy competition.  Lunch or Dinner – Choose a place with fun and unique vibes for a meal break.   We like The Grateful Shed (indoor food trucks) and Buffalo Phils (food delivered by model train with a massive Lego city).

Eau Claire, Wisconsin

As you approach Minneapolis, consider making one final pit stop in Eau Claire. Take in the Sculpture Walk , boasting a collection of over 150 sculptures and recognized as one of the largest in the nation. Additionally, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the riverwalk in Phoenix Park .

For an engaging indoor experience, the Eau Claire Children’s Museum or the newly renovated Public Library are excellent destinations that offer young children ample opportunities to explore and discover.

Frequently Asked Questions about Road Tripping with Kids

1. How can I ensure safety during our Midwest road trips?

Safety should always be your top priority. Make sure all car seats are installed correctly and that seat belts are worn at all times. Plan your route in advance, and consider road conditions and weather forecasts. Keep an updated first-aid kit in the car and be aware of where hospitals or clinics are along your route. Pack your insurance card and know your login so you can check for in-network urgent care clinics should the need arise.

2. What’s the best way to keep kids comfortable during long drives?

Comfort is key on Midwest road trips. Dress kids in loose, comfortable clothing. Bring along pillows for longer drives and plan regular stops to stretch legs and burn off energy.

Also, keeping the car clean and clutter-free can contribute to overall comfort. Easier said than done, I know, but I have a few tips for car organization in this post .

3. How can I maintain a peaceful atmosphere in the car?

Set expectations before you start your journey. Explain the importance of being respectful and patient. Create a playlist of everyone’s favorite songs or listen to audiobooks that the whole family can enjoy. Remember, your attitude sets the tone for the trip.

I ensure each kid that we are doing one thing each day specifically with their interests in mind.

4. How do I keep the kids entertained throughout the trip?

Creativity is your best friend here. Pack travel-friendly games, download movies or shows on tablets, or play classic car games like “I Spy” or “License Plate Game”. I have tons of my favorite road trip activities listed here.

Consider creating a travel journal where they can document their Midwest road trip.

5. Should I pack meals or plan to stop for food?

A mix of both works well. Pack plenty of healthy snacks and drinks to curb hunger between meals and pass the time. For meals, research kid-friendly restaurants along your route. Trying local cuisine can be one of the highlights of Midwest road trips.

6. Are there any recommended apps for road trips? Absolutely! Apps like Roadtrippers and Waze are great for planning your route and getting real-time traffic updates. For entertainment, consider apps like Libby (for e-books and audiobooks) or Netflix and Disney+ (download shows/movies for offline viewing).

7. How often should we take breaks?

For comfort and safety, plan to stop every 2-3 hours. Use these breaks for restroom visits, meals, and to explore attractions along the way. This break-up makes Midwest road trips more manageable for kids. If you have an infant in the car, pediatricians advise not to leave them in their car seat for more than 2 hours at a time at risk of impacting spinal development.

8. What are some essential items to pack for kids? Apart from clothing and toiletries, consider packing items such as blankets, favorite toys, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, sunscreen, hats, and reusable water bottles. Don’t forget chargers for electronic devices!

9. How can I make the trip educational for my kids? Midwest road trips offer ample opportunities for learning. Research each destination beforehand and share interesting facts or play podcasts/Youtube videos about the destination en route. Visit historical sites, museums, and nature reserves. Encourage kids to read road maps or calculate distances.

National Parks and State Parks have ranger and naturalist programs. Inquire when you arrive.

Final thoughts on Midwest Road Trips

The Midwest is packed with family-friendly attractions. Remember, every family is different. Tailor your Midwest road trips to suit your family’s interests and needs. Happy travels!

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7 Classic Midwest Road Trips to Drive This Year

Fill up—or charge up—for these quintessential drives..

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The scenic byway near Tettegouche State Park commands must-pull-over views.

Photo by Paul Stafford/Explore Minnesota

Comprised of 12 states that include the Great Lakes, scenic state parks, and an array of world-class cities like Chicago, Minneapolis, and Kansas City, the Midwest is one of the most exciting road trip regions in the United States. And while any time of year is a good time to explore America’s Heartland, summer offers some of the best adventures, thanks to prized hikes and trails, top-down temps, and beckoning beaches.

From waterfalls and winding rivers to award-winning dining and drinking, drives in this region offer it all. Here are some of the best Midwest road trips to take right now.

Get your road trip cherries at Friske.

Courtesy of Friske Farm Market

Traverse City to Charlevoix, MI

Distance: 50 miles

Start: Traverse City, MI

End: Charlevoix, MI

Take U.S.-31 north from Traverse City and watch the route evolve from bay views to farms, forests, and countryside. Stop at Friske Farm Market along the way for souvenir shopping and cherry picking (prime during summer months), then hit Bier , an art gallery featuring local works alongside an onsite brewery.

Situated on three lakes, Charlevoix is a must for water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding, not to mention its vibrant local arts and dining scene (read: freshly caught fish aplenty). Upon arrival, check into Hotel Earl , a new property that opened in September last year. It was originally designed by locally lauded architect Earl Young. Come happy hour, head to Stafford’s Weathervane for epic lakefront views and fresh-catch options, and close out the eve with Brian’s Ice Cream Experience, known for a multitude of fun flavors (from morel mushroom to RumChata). If you do make the trek back to Traverse City, don’t miss the chance to grab a burger at Oakwood Proper or dine at Farm Club , a recently opened restaurant featuring locally grown everything.

Elkhart Lake offers some great canoeing opportunities.

Courtesy of Travel Wisconsin

Chicago to Kohler and Elkhart Lake, WI

Distance: 163 miles

Start: Chicago, IL

End: Elkhart Lake, WI

Rev your engines in Chicago and head due north, passing several of the city’s prettiest suburbs on the way. (For an early break, consider tea at Lake Forest’s legendary Deer Path Inn , set among sprawling green parks and lakefront landmarks.) An hour past Milwaukee you’ll find Kohler, a town in Sheboygan County that’s home to Kohler Company manufacturing and the American Club Resort Hotel at Destination Kohler , a five-star resort boasting seven restaurants, two golf courses, and a state-of-the-art spa.

Settle into either of the property’s newest cabins—Lake or Pond—for a particularly remote stay, thanks to a full kitchen, firepit, and ample outdoor space. Then continue your travels just 20 miles northwest to Elkhart Lake, a waterfront village with serious hospitality. The Osthoff Resort , a four-diamond property situated on more than 500 feet of pristine shoreline, is a go-to for lakefront activities.

When evening rolls around, sample contemporary American fare downtown at the Paddock Club and cocktails at Siebken’s, then rise early for a hike around LaBudde Creek State Wildlife Area . If you’re craving more downtime, visit the resort’s Aspira Spa , just footsteps from your room.

The Lake Shore Resort on Lake Michigan is just three miles from downtown Saugatuck.

Courtesy of Lake Shore Resort

Indianapolis, IN, to Saugatuck, MI

Distance: 225 miles

Start: Indianapolis, IN

End: Saugatuck, MI

Indianapolis is a destination in its own right, so linger at the start and try lunch at Milktooth, a modern-day diner with options like shrimp banh mi and pistachio waffles. Then hit U.S.-31 for a few adventures—the first at Grissom Air Museum (75 miles north of Indy), the next at Lake Manitou, about 30 miles north of there. Once at the beach town of Saugatuck, check in at the Lakeshore Resort , then head straightaway to Oval Beach, considered to be one of the nation’s best for its low-key vibes and stellar sunsets.

Saugatuck is known best for its waterfront charm, but it can’t be overlooked for its farm-to-table dining and bustling arts community. (In addition to Saugatuck Center for the Arts, it’s home to the celebrated Ox-Bow School of Art and Artists’ Residency. )

Those looking to continue a chilled-out itinerary can enjoy Music in the Park before dinner at one of the town’s top restaurants (try Bowdie’s Chophouse or Salt of the Earth in Fennville). Come morning, grab a pick-me-up from Pennyroyal Café and Provisions , where chef Melissa Corey offers hearty fare like buckwheat crepes and bacon-kale hash.

The harbor town of Grand Marais is a good place to stretch your legs.

Photo by Dillon Austin/Unsplash

Duluth to Grand Portage State Park, MN

Distance: 143 miles

Start: Duluth, MN

End: Grand Portage State Park, MN

When researching Midwest road trip ideas, keep this circuit in mind—at just under three hours, it can work as a day trip or overnight alike. From Duluth, hop on MN-61 north the entire way for prime Lake Superior views before coming to this state park, home to Minnesota’s tallest waterfall, hiking trails, and cultural encounters (four life-sized murals showcase the story of the Ojibwe community, who occupy the land today). The photo opps alone will be well worth the trek—along with plenty of fun stops along the way (especially in the charming harbor town of Grand Marais).

Back in Duluth, unwind at Canal Park Brewing Company before checking into the neighboring Canal Park Lodge , a waterfront favorite for its proximity to the Lakewalk. For lunch, leave it to Sara’s Table , where comfort fare classics undergo a modern-day spin (truffled French fries and vegan okonomiyaki ).

Don’t fill up on road trip snacks if you’re planning on ending the trip at Geneva National.

Courtesy of Destination Geneva National (2)

Chicago to Lake Geneva, WI

Distance: 83 miles

End: Lake Geneva, WI

For a Midwest road trip destination that is just a hop-skip from big-city living, try a drive to Lake Geneva, less than 100 miles north of Chicago. Take I-94 north and stop in Kenosha just 28 miles out from your destination for some of the state’s most prized souvenirs—cheese curds and a six-pack of New Glarus’s Spotted Cow beer—before continuing on your way.

Once there, check into the Grand Geneva , a 355-room resort with everything you’d need for a weekend of winding down (from golf and tennis to a full-service spa). Post up in one of its spacious villas before checking out the onsite options for dinner (like prime cuts and seafood at Geneva ChopHouse ), or venture to Hunt Club , the fine dining venue at Geneva National , a 1,600-acre property on Lake Como.

Make a detour to Badlands National Park.

Photo by Intricate Explorer/Unsplash

Sioux Falls to Spearfish, SD Distance: 392 miles

Start: Sioux Falls, SD

End: Spearfish, SD

Start this road trip with some Sioux Falls staples, such as the SculptureWalk and Arc of Dreams (and maybe CH Pâtisserie for a croissant, too). About a third of the way along your route you’ll hit Mitchell and the World’s Only Corn Palace , a site showcasing the proud harvest of South Dakota farmers.

About 200 miles further on your journey, you’ll come across Badlands National Park , where you can cruise the South Unit’s perimeter for views of its iconic rock formations, while also keeping an eye out for the area’s abundant wildlife (from bison to bighorn sheep). Back on I-90, fuel up on maple-covered doughnuts from Wall Drug , a 1931 Wall, South Dakota, institution made famous for decades for its roadside hospitality (only adding to the sugar rush in Rapid City, thanks to a stop at Pistachio Pie Bakery ). Entering Spearfish, enjoy a draft at Crow Peak Brewing before kicking back at Spearfish Canyon Lodge for a well-deserved rest.

Trixie’s is not your basic road trip food option.

Courtesy of Trixie’s (2)

Green Bay to Door County, WI

Distance: 43 miles

Start: Green Bay, WI

End: Door County, WI

Situated on a peninsula between Green Bay and Lake Michigan, Door County has become a Midwesterner’s must-see for its sprawling shoreline, scenic state parks (Peninsula State Park, Newport State Park), and burgeoning food and drink scene. From Green Bay, hop on WI-57 north for lakefront views then meander on country roads with appealing food and farm stops ( Renard’s Cheese and the Farm , respectively).

Continue those eats upon arrival in Ephraim with a visit to Trixie’s , a bright, bustling eatery focused on the locally sourced and seriously good (ricotta agnolotti or grilled trout with roasted turnips). Find lodging footsteps away at the Hillside Waterfront Hotel , where five suites and two cottages await, along with the longest porch in the county (lemonade, anyone?). Come morning, take the ferry to Washington Island to explore myriad treasures, including Schoolhouse Beach and Fragrant Isle , a 30,000-plant lavender farm with a French-inspired café.

>> Next: 8 Unforgettable European Road Trips

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7 Best Midwest Road Trips in the US

From the Great Lakes to national monuments and roadside kitsch, a road trip is the best way to explore the Midwest.

Flyover country it is not. The Midwest offers a variety of landscapes, ripe for exploration with a classic road trip . From rolling vineyards to lush river valleys, high limestone bluffs to some pretty great lakes, this region of the United States is often overlooked. It's time to change that, so cue up a playlist, pack your favorite snacks, and hit the road on one of these top Midwest road trips, which are sure to highlight the best of America's pulsing, vibrant heartland.

Wisconsin's Great River Road

Start: Prescott, WI End: Kieler, WI Length: 234 miles

The picturesque city of Prescott, situated where the St. Croix River meets the Mississippi River, makes for a great jumping-off point for this road trip. Start at the Great River Road Visitor & Learning Center and drive south along Wisconsin's 250-mile stretch of the National Scenic Byway, which hugs the Mississippi's curves and bluffs. In addition to pretty views, this area of Wisconsin offers unexpected culinary delights in tiny river towns. Bay City's Chef Shack is worth a stop for its lovely back patio and two James Beard Award-nominated chefs at the helm.

Pepin, Wisconsin, located on the widest natural part of the river — the aptly named Lake Pepin — also deserves some attention. There, check out the Harbor View Cafe , which has been impressing visitors since 1980. Meanwhile, fans of the "Little House on the Prairie" books can visit the birthplace of writer Laura Ingalls Wilder , a roughly 10-minute journey inland from Lake Pepin. Continue along the beautiful highway past La Crosse, Wisconsin, then, consider cutting inward to Viroqua, Wisconsin, via State Highway 14. The rolling hills and pastureland of Vernon County are home to the highest concentration of organic farms in the state. Visit the Driftless Cafe , home to another James Beard Award nominee, for the best farm-to-table fare in the region.

Wine lovers should consider hitting some stops on the Great River Road Wine Trail , especially Danzinger Vineyards on the bluff in Alma. Those who prefer a hoppy beverage can stop at the Potosi Brewery near the end of this road trip. The Great River Road stretches beyond Wisconsin, but Kieler is the last stop before it crosses the border and continues on to Iowa's pretty river city of Dubuque. With a total driving time just under five hours, this trip could be done in a day, but most of the attractions are right at the start. A nice way to break it up into a two-day trip is with an overnight stay near the vineyards.

Indiana's Natural Wonders and Small Towns

Start: Indiana Dunes National Park, IN End: Bloomington, IN Length: 288 miles

Begin at the 15,000-acre Indiana Dunes National Park in northwestern Indiana. Situated on Lake Michigan's beautiful southern shore, this area is perfect for birding, beach time, and other activities in nature. From there, drive to the small lake town of Winona Lake to browse the little shops along the waterfront. For an upscale bite, stop into Cerulean , and for more laidback fare, consider the BoatHouse Restaurant . Spend the night two and a half hours south at The Alexander in downtown Indianapolis, both the capital and largest city in the state.

Explore the city using the Canal Walk , visit the acclaimed Indianapolis Children's Museum , scope out some street art , and enjoy a meal at St. Elmo Steak House . For an extra dose of exercise in the city, check out the Monon Rail Trail , a former rail line that stretches from Indy to the northern suburbs. After your time in the capital city, head south to Bloomington, home to Indiana University. This college town offers both a picturesque campus and a walkable downtown area. Continue on to Brown County State Park , the largest in Indiana, which is open for picnicking, hiking, horseback riding, and more.

You'll be on the road for at least five hours on this trip. Considering that you will want a day or two for exploring all Indianapolis has to offer, the trip should be broken up into two legs at least.

Nebraska's Sandhill Journey

Start: Grand Island, NE End: Bayard, NE Length: 335 miles

Begin your journey in Grand Island, an area that truly shines in the spring with the world's largest sandhill crane migration . From there, follow State Highway 2 to Broken Bow, where you can access information on the route at the Sandhills Journey Scenic Byway Visitor Center . Thirsty travelers can imbibe at Kinkaider Brewing Company , which offers a taproom and restaurant in the gateway to the Sandhills.

After indulging responsibly (nominate a designated driver in advance), continue on Highway 2 until you reach the town of Anselmo, where you'll take a slight detour to Victoria Springs State Recreation Area , an oasis known for its healing mineral waters. Here, road-trippers can enjoy activities like paddleboarding, fishing, and picnicking at one of Nebraska's oldest state recreation areas. In the summer season, the park's log cabins make for a fun overnight option and can be reserved up to a year in advance. Pro tip: If you opt for an overnight, be sure to check out the stars without the usual light pollution interference.

End at perhaps the quirkiest attraction on this list, Carhenge , a replica of England's Stonehenge crafted with old cars. Bonus: For those who want a taste of the Oregon Trail, consider a journey to the Chimney Rock National Historic Site in Bayard, less than an hour beyond Alliance.

You'll be on the road for about six hours with this itinerary, with the longest leg being between Anselmo and Alliance. If you take your time at the Sandhills or Victoria Springs, you can break this trip up over two, three, or four days.

Route 66's First Leg

Start: Chicago, IL End: St. Louis, MO Length: 315 miles

Route 66, which runs from Chicago, Illinois , to the Santa Monica Pier in Los Angeles, is a classic, and you can explore a portion of it in the Midwest. Start in the Windy City, after enjoying some of its famous deep-dish pizza. Additionally, you may want to stop for a photo op at the corner of Michigan and Adams, where the historic "Begin Route 66" sign stands. Then, head to nearby Wilmington to see one of the famed Muffler Men statues, the Gemini Giant, near the charming Launching Pad restaurant. From Wilmington, it's a roughly two-hour drive to the Illinois capitol of Springfield, where history buffs will want to check out the numerous Abraham Lincoln sites. Highlights include the Lincoln Home , his Presidential Library and Museum , and the Lincoln Tomb .

Next, journey onward to St. Louis. Travelers can stretch their legs at the famous Chain of Rocks Bridge, which has since been turned into part of the Route 66 Bikeway. The bridge is even on the National Register of Historic Places. End your intro to Route 66 in luxe fashion with an overnight stay at the surprisingly affordable Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis , a short walk from Gateway Arch National Park . The property boasts a tasty eatery with a James Beard Award-winning chef as well as a full spa. Plus, it's close to another must-visit St. Louis attraction for kids: the interactive City Museum .

Getting from Chicago to St. Louis takes approximately five hours. History buffs may want to spend the night in Springfield to make the most of the Lincoln-related attractions, but an afternoon may be sufficient to pay your respects to the late American president.

Minnesota's North Shore

Start: Duluth, MN End: Grand Portage, MN Length: 112 miles

This drive follows the scenic State Highway 61 along Lake Superior's stunning, rocky shores. Part of the Arrowhead Region in northeast Minnesota, this drive belongs on any U.S. road trip bucket list. Begin in Duluth, Minnesota, which is famous for its breweries and native Bob Dylan, who was born in the city and raised in nearby Hibbing. Walk along Bob Dylan Way for a glimpse of the folk music legend and his childhood home. Consider sipping some artisan spirits at Vikre Distillery , which offers views of the famed Aerial Lift Bridge . To pay homage to the region's Scandinavian roots, sample Vikre's aquavit , also known as "Norwegian Everclear."

For an overnight stay, consider checking vacation rental options in pretty Two Harbors; this town is an excellent base for exploring Gooseberry Falls , Minnesota's most visited state park, and Split Rock Lighthouse , one of the most photographed spots in the state. Road-trippers should also plan to fill up on pizza at longtime favorite Sven and Ole's in Grand Marais.

The whole drive will only take you about two hours if you go straight through, so you could do it as a busy day trip from Duluth, or take your time to enjoy the lake over the course of two or three days. From roughly May to October, intrepid explorers can consider an extension to Michigan's remote and gorgeous Isle Royale National Park . Daily ferry transport is available from Grand Portage, Minnesota, the scenic end point of this North Shore excursion. The ferry takes about two hours, and if you want to spend the night you can find a room or go camping in Rock Harbor or Windigo.

South Dakota's Monuments and Scenery

Start: Sioux Falls, SD End: Mount Rushmore, SD Length: 513 miles

Begin in the state's largest city, Sioux Falls, with a walk around pretty Falls Park . Then, drive to nearby Mitchell, just over an hour away, to visit the quirky and fun attraction that is The World's Only Corn Palace . You can stop for the views as you pass by Badlands National Park , or continue on through Rapid City — where you can visit the state's oldest-operating brewery, Firehouse Brewing Company , for a cold beverage — to the ever-enchanting kitsch of historic Deadwood . Even though it's super-touristy, everyone should visit at least once.

Additionally, visitors can see some gorgeous waterfalls, hiking paths, and rock ridges in Spearfish Canyon , which is actually more ancient than the better-known Grand Canyon. Also, try the well-awarded brews at Spearfish Brewing Company . For those who want an additional taste of the winding road, consider some time on the Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway . From there, go south to the Crazy Horse Memorial in the town of Crazy Horse, which is the biggest mountain carving on Earth and has been under construction for decades.

If the carved faces of Mount Rushmore , South Dakota's most-visited attraction, are your goal, be sure to take your time when driving on a part of the lovely Peter Norbeck National Scenic Byway . Outdoorsy types may also enjoy a visit to Custer State Park , the largest in the state.

With over nine hours of driving time to complete this trip from Sioux Falls, you will need a few days on the road. Rapid City and Deadwood are good options for overnight stays — especially if your trips are Rushmore-oriented — unless you prefer to do some camping in the parks.

Michigan's Peninsula

Start: Sault Sainte Marie, MI End: Leland, MI Length: 222 miles

Begin in the small town of Sault Ste. Marie , perched between Lake Superior and Lake Huron and adjacent to its Canadian sister city of the same name. Be sure to sample the beer at Soo Brewing Company , shortened to Soo Brew by locals. Also check out the "lynchpin of the Great Lakes," the Soo Locks , except from January through March, when they are closed for repairs. Nature lovers may consider a detour, heading westward first to Michigan's second-largest state park, Tahquamenon Falls State Park , which boasts over 50,000 acres of pristine wilderness, including one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi. It will addd about 75 miles to the trip, however.

For an overnight option to break up the drive, stay at the historic Grand Hotel on carless Mackinac Island (Note: Like many of the Island's businesses, the hotel is only open during the island's high season between May and October). Be sure to build in time to try some of this destination's famous fudge, too. The charming island can be accessed via ferry from Mackinaw City (Lower Peninsula) or St. Ignace (Upper Peninsula). After experiencing some of the delights of the Upper Peninsula, cross the one of the world's longest suspension bridges, the Mackinac Bridge, to Michigan's Lower Peninsula, which everyone calls "the mitten" for its shape. Once you cross the bridge, consider a nighttime visit to nearby Headlands International Dark Sky Park , where it's possible to catch a glimpse of the northern lights if you get very lucky with your timing. If not, you'll still enjoy a brilliant display of stars there.

From the preserve, it's just a two-hour winding lakefront drive to Traverse City, known as Michigan's foodie capital, where you should stop and eat at the French-inspired Brasserie Amie . If you have a sweet tooth, cap off your meal with a stop at the wildly popular Grand Traverse Pie Company . End your trip on the gorgeous Leelanau Peninsula , Michigan's answer to Wisconsin's storied Door County. Check out Leland's Fishtown, take the ferry to the Manitou Islands (part of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore ), and imbibe at the wineries on the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail .

Not including times spent on ferries, the total driving time for this trip is just under five hours, but with so much to see plan to have lots of time saved for dilly-dallying. Three to five nights are ideal so you can really enjoy this itinerary that touches three out of the five Great Lakes .

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Best Midwest Family Vacations

Midwest Living's experienced editors create best-in-class travel, lifestyle, food, home and garden content you won't find anywhere else. We're loudly, proudly Midwestern, and we're passionate about helping our audience explore and create through award-winning storytelling.

Head for a sparkling lake, explore big-city science and nature museums, or enjoy hiking and biking in state parks. The Midwest delivers great family getaways in destinations like Branson, Missouri; Brainerd Lakes, Minnesota; the Black Hills of South Dakota; Traverse City, Michigan; Indianapolis and more. Check out two dozen of our top picks for family vacation destinations.

Indianapolis

A top-notch children's museum, zoo, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and other kid-friendly destinations will keep your family busy during a getaway in Indianapolis. The Children's Museum of Indianapolis —the world's largest children's museum—recently added even more fun with a $38.5 million sports-theme addition. Kids also love the interactive features at Indy's Rhythm! Discovery Center, as well as experiences like a hot-air balloon ride and pioneer interpreters at Conner Prairie , a living-history museum about 25 miles northeast of downtown.

Black Hills, South Dakota

With patriotic charm, Old West adventure, sweeping history lessons, stunning scenery, caves and paleontology, and wildlife galore, South Dakota's Black Hills is one of America's greatest family destinations . Ride the 1880 Train , let the kids earn a Junior Ranger badge at Mount Rushmore, go on a horseback ride or Jeep tour at Custer State Park, and tap your inner paleontologist at The Mammoth Site .

Cincinnati, Ohio

Grown-ups don't need any excuse to visit the Cincinnati Museum Center, the Reds Hall of Fame or the Newport Aquarium on their own, but bringing the kids makes sense on a Midwest weekend getaway in Cincinnati . Besides those attractions, be sure to see the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden , the second-oldest zoo in the country; wander the maze and other attractions at Smale Riverfront Park ; stop at a Graeter's Ice Cream for a scoop of deliciousness; and head northeast of the city for a day at Kings Island amusement park.

Branson, Missouri

Thrill rides, musical shows and artisan demonstrations captivate all ages at Ozarks-themed Silver Dollar City . Add in attractions like the Branson Scenic Railway , the Titanic Museum , Branson Zipline at Wolfe Mountain and family-friendly shows at venues like Sight and Sound Theatres , and you've got plenty to entertain the kids for days . A stay at Big Cedar Lodge adds even more family activities.

Brainerd Lakes, Minnesota

The laid-back lakeside life of the Brainerd Lakes region has drawn families for generations. Choose your style from dozens of lodgings—a quiet lakeside getaway with family cabins or a full-service resort with kids' programs all day. The family can also have fun exploring Paul Bunyan Land , trying the weekly Turtle Races in Nisswa and biking at Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area .

Read more about things to do in Brainerd Lakes.

Traverse City, Michigan

Traverse City's stunning beaches, arts, culture, parks and kid-friendly restaurants make this northern Michigan town a destination the whole family can enjoy . Sun and swim at Clinch Park Beach, head out on the water with the Traverse Tall Ship Company, try all things cherry at Grand Traverse Pie Company or see a classic kids' flick at Cherry Bowl Drive-in Theatre.

Columbus, Ohio

Riding a high-wire unicycle, splashing in a massive fountain and feeding giraffes highlight a family weekend in Columbus, Ohio . The Center of Science and Industry is a must-stop, with interactive exhibits covering themes like space, energy and the oceans. Make sure, too, to see the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens , where herb gardens, a canopy walk, play structures and a Hocking Hills-inspired splash area—waterfall and all—cover the 2-acre Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Children's Garden.

Planning a getaway to Omaha with the kids ? A family adventure should start with a day at Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium , one of the nation's top-ranked zoos, where immersive habitats allow visitors get close to species like red pandas, sharks and gorillas. The Omaha Children's Museum entertains with interactive art and science stations, while the Durham Museum —once Omaha's main train station—lets kids explore restored train cars and stop by an old-fashioned soda fountain. On the Missouri River south of downtown, Fontenelle Forest provides a green space for hiking and ziplining.

Chicago's family fun options are nonstop—just like your kids. Top picks in and around Chicago for families include museums, historical sites and Lake Michigan beaches. You could spend a day or more just at world-class sites like the Shedd Aquarium , Adler Planetarium and the Field Museum of Natural History , but you'll also want to go a little wild at the Brookfield Zoo and let the kids roam at Millennium Park and along the lakefront.

Dubuque, Iowa

Baseball fields, caves and the mighty Mississippi River provide a fun backdrop for a family-friendly Midwest weekend getaway to Dubuque . Check out The National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium , the Fields of Dreams Movie Site , and Fenelon Place Elevator —the world's shortest, steepest scenic railway.

Southwest Michigan Shore

With more than 140 miles of soft sand, almost every beach is the right beach along Michigan's southwest shore . But in the towns like St. Joseph, Holland, South Haven, Grand Haven and Ludington, travelers find distinct flavors catering to a variety of tastes. Kids will love experiences like exploring the Curious Kids' Museum in St. Joseph, seeing Windmill Island Gardens in Holland, and sailing on Friends Good Will out of South Haven.

Medora, North Dakota

Tiny Medora (population: 132) makes a good base to explore Theodore Roosevelt National Park . Learn about Roosevelt's legacy at activities in town, then head out—by bike, foot, car or horse—to explore the stark beauty of the badlands. The Medora Musical brings singing, dancing and boot-scootin' tunes to the Burning Hills Amphitheatre; celebrate cowboy culture at the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame.

Wichita, Kansas

Cowboys pushing cattle across the Kansas prairie longed for a view of Wichita on the horizon. Today, the city of almost 400,000 still makes a great destination. Families will enjoy the themed gardens at Botanica ; at the Downing Children's Garden, even adults can't resist plunking away on unconventional instruments. Exploration Place offers interactive activities like designing an airline seat and testing landing gear; at Field Station: Dinosaurs , more than 40 life-size animatronic dinosaurs roar in a dreamland for budding paleontologists (in Derby, 11 miles south of Wichita). More great stops for the family: Kansas Aviation Museum , Old Cowtown Museum and Sedgwick County Zoo .

St. Paul and Minneapolis, Minnesota

The Twin Cities embrace the outdoors with family-friendly attractions such as Valleyfair amusement park , beaches (really!), Twins baseball and the Minnesota Zoo , but there's plenty inside to keep kids busy when the weather's too hot, cold or wet. The Minnesota Children's Museum, the Science Museum of Minnesota and Mill City Museum are just a few of the Twin Cities' attractions that will keep the kids—and their parents—entertained.

Hayward, Wisconsin

In northwest Wisconsin, days bring hiking in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest and paddling the Namekagon River; nights bring campfires, cozy cabins and starry skies. The kids will love going to Scheer's Lumberjack Show , snapping a photo in front of the half-city-block-long leaping musky at the Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Fame and getting giant scoops of ice cream at West's Hayward Dairy and Ice Cream Café .

Museums, parks, science centers and outdoor adventures—Cleveland rocks your Midwest weekend getaway with tons of fun stuff to do with the family. Play mad scientist at the Great Lakes Science Center , across the street from the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum . Relive the cult classic A Christmas Story at A Christmas Story House and Museum, or explore dinosaurs at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History .

Read more about top things to do with kids in Cleveland.

Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri

Settle in at your choice of Lake of the Ozarks resorts, cabins or hotels, then spend your days exploring the vast lake or the towns like Osage Beach that surround it. Taste fudge or dine in a family-friendly restaurant along the Bagnell Dam Strip; explore Bridal Cave or Ha Ha Tonka State Park; or just relax by the pool or floating on the lake at lodgings such as The Lodge of Four Seasons or Point Randall Resort.

Museums, a zoo, baseball, cars, waterfront attractions, pizza ... a Midwest weekend getaway to Detroit is enough to make anyone feel like a kid again. Try hands-on experiments at the Michigan Science Center or spend the day immersed in history at The Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village . The Detroit International Riverfront gives kids plenty of room to run, and the Outdoor Adventure Center delivers ways to try a variety of adventures.

Madison, Wisconsin

Madison—the capital of Wisconsin and the home of the University of Wisconsin Badgers—is often billed as an active, athletic town. It's also a great place to bring your family . Whether you've got preschoolers, tweens or teens in tow, there's plenty to see and do, including the Madison Children's Museum , Henry Vilas Zoo , Olbrich Botanical Gardens and the National Mustard Museum .

Kansas City, Missouri

With the combined Oceans of Fun and Worlds of Fun parks, Legoland , the Kansas City Zoo and more, families will find plenty to fill a Midwest weekend getaway to Kansas City , Missouri. Enjoy interactive exhibits at the College Basketball Experience , explore underwater creatures at the Sea Life Aquarium and pop over the border to Kansas to experience the Moon Marble Company .

Hocking Hills, Ohio

Drive 50 miles southeast of Columbus and you'll feel like you've entered another world—one of lush forests dotted with caves, gorges and waterfalls. The whole family will love exploring Hocking Hills State Park , and be sure to take the kids to adventures such as ziplining at Hocking Hills Canopy Tours , horseback riding at Spotted Horse Ranch and canoeing or playing miniature golf at Hocking Hills Adventures .

Springfield, Illinois

Springfield delivers both serious history lessons and light-hearted slices of Americana . But the city where Lincoln lived is known for informative sites that put a relatable face on a larger-than-life figure. The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum provides a good intro to the 16th president; the Lincoln Home National Historic Site and Lincoln's New Salem State Historic Site (near Petersburg, 20 miles northwest of Springfield) will also intrigue young history lovers. Kids and parents will both enjoy the Route 66 memorabilia—and a corn dog—at Springfield's Cozy Dog Drive In .

There's much to do in Iowa's state capitol . At Adventureland Resort , the Bernie's Barnyard kids area recently joined 100-plus rides and attractions. Head for thrills on the $9 million Monster steel roller coaster or cool off at Iowa's longest lazy river. Elsewhere in the metro, catch a seal show at the Blank Park Zoo , try hands-on science at the Science Center of Iowa , wander among world-class sculptures at the John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park , and explore three eras of farms at Living History Farms .

Weekend getaways to Milwaukee keep kids busy and feed their imaginations with family-friendly museums, a zoo and science center. At Discovery World , 18 exhibits encourage exploring science and technology at a waterfront museum. The Harley-Davidson Museum is a must-see for its hands-on exhibits and nine Harleys to "ride." Kids can even get in on a little of the city's brewing action at Sprecher Brewery , which makes soda pop as well as the adult stuff.

Midwest Family Vacations: 8 Road Trip Worthy Getaways in Central USA

In the Midwest , more so than any other part of the country, we love a good  road trip . With vehicles packed and ready for adventure, rest stops meticulously planned to include ‘the world’s biggest this’ or ‘the state’s oldest that’, and a playlist with a little bit of everything for everyone, a road trip means adventure is coming.

Because every road trip needs a destination, I scoured my own memories for the best Midwest  family vacations  we have experienced through the years. From  toddler  to teen, these eight getaways made memories – and called us back for multiple visits!

Connect with Family and the Nature of the Midwest

If the words ‘get away from it all’ describe your dream vacation destination,  Foxfire deluxe cabin in Ohio’s Hocking Hills  may be your perfect getaway. This 3-level cabin in the woods features 4 bedrooms, as well as a second level balcony perfect for a peaceful cup of coffee in the morning and a relaxing evening on the porch swing watching wildlife wander through the ravine below.

The rustic woodland charm continues inside the cabin, where wood hewn furnishings and beam walls compliment the modern conveniences that assure a very comfortable stay. A stone fireplace (with gas fire) in the open plan living area soars to the top of the loft, where a ‘bridge’ connects an en-suite bedroom to its sitting area.

Though the draw in this area is  outdoor activity  and  nature , this cabin calls you back and promises you won’t hear ‘I’m bored’ from the kids. The lower level, with game room, 55″ TV, refrigerator, bedroom, and bathroom, may become the teen hangout. A sure way to get them outside? Build a fire in the nearby firepit and mention s’mores.

While there is no restaurant on site, the modern kitchen and propane grill make it easy to put together meals to enjoy indoors or out on the deck.

Hocking Hills Cabins & Resort Foxfire

A little 'wild west' and a lot of modern comforts in the midwest.

Mount Rushmore Resort & Lodge at Palmer Gulch  makes an impression as soon as you enter the grounds. A riding stable and the false fronted buildings of Turtle Town offer a nod to the area’s ‘wild west’ history and anticipation of things to come. As you enter the lodge, a two-story fireplace, created with granite from the Crazy Horse Memorial, immediately catches your eye, teasing the larger-than-life experiences you will have in  the Black Hills  of  South Dakota .

​One of the best options at this resort is choosing how you stay. Opt for one of the lodge rooms, with fireplaces, kitchenettes, and a balcony. Or rent your own lodge or cabin for the resort experiences with private space. Palmer Gulch is a KOA Resort, so friends and family who prefer to RV and camp can join the fun.

​Amenities at this resort seem never-ending. The Fun Zone has two pools, two heated spas, a  waterslide , and a splash pad. If you prefer to stay dry, you can conquer the climbing wall, shoot hoops, catch air on the jumping pillow, or putt your way through the mini golf course. Explore further with horseback riding and UTV rentals. In the evenings you can relax on a horse drawn wagon ride or settle in for movie night.

​Dining is plentiful at the resort at Palmer Gulch. The Peak Grill & Tap Room offers local flavors in an upscale cabin setting for lunch or dinner. Turtle Town serves a fast food menu featuring fried chicken, gourmet pizzas, and hand-scooped ice cream. Grapes and Grinds is available to begin your day with concoctions brewed with locally roasted coffee beans and end your day at an evening wine tasting and live music.

Lodge at Palmer Gulch

It's always the right time to visit santa in the midwest.

Santa Claus, Indiana, that is. The best place to enjoy Indiana’s resort city is  Lake Rudolph Campground & Resort . You will find a variety of lodging options available, from cottages and cabins to RV rentals. These self-catering accommodations offer a comfortable ‘ glamping ‘ experience with full kitchen, charcoal grill, picnic table, and fire ring at all sites. Cabins and cottages also have a porch or deck – be sure to bring lawn chairs to enjoy a relaxing evening. The resort features daily planned activities that include movies, arts & crafts, and parades. Also within the park are a Santa’s SplashDown Water Park with water slides, splash pad, and cabana rentals, two playgrounds, basketball courts, a lake for paddle boating and fishing (no license required), mini golf, a game room, and nature trails. Though you won’t find full-service restaurants on the resort grounds, nearby Blitzen Kitchen serves pizza, snacks, and ice cream – perfect for those evenings you just don’t feel like cooking.

Lake Rudolph Campground & Rv Resort

Miles away from ordinary in the midwest.

Does your vacation wish list just say, “I want it all”? Then the  Grand Traverse Resort and Spa  in Michigan is the destination for you. This 900 acre resort has everything you could want for a family vacation.

In the hotel, you can choose a room or a suite. These rooms are convenient to the spa, health club, and pools. For more space, opt for a bay side or golf course condominium, just minutes from the resort via shuttle. Available in configurations from studio to three bedroom, condos include a dining area, kitchenette, living room, and private patio or balcony. Larger families and groups will love the space of a private Resort Home. With a full kitchen, fireplace, and deck, as well as full access to resort amenities, you will wish you could move in permanently.

Once you arrive at the Grand Traverse Resort you won’t need (or want) to leave! The property features four pools (two indoor, two out), four hot tubs, an indoor water playground, three championship golf courses, a massive fitness and tennis center with nine tennis courts, an entertainment center, shops, five restaurants, and a world-class spa. Truly, what more could you ask for?

Grand Traverse Resort and Spa

Cozy luxury in the midwest on the landing.

Located in the center of vibrant Branson Landing and at the foot of the historic ‘Branson Strip’, the  Hilton Promenade at Branson Landing  is the best place to experience the excitement and history of this Missouri city in the Ozark Mountains.

Rooms feature a clean, contemporary design and include all the comforts of Hilton Hotels – plush Serenity Beds, an indoor pool, fitness center, and on-site restaurant. If you’ll be staying more than a couple days choose one of the hotel’s larger suites or condos with extra living space and large balconies. My advice? Pay a little more for the fountain view balcony room. It’s the best view of the spectacular fountain shows that take place daily, every hour from noon-9pm.

If you’re not quite sure what to see and do, the hotel’s knowledgeable concierge can offer recommendations and even assist with reservations. The first restaurant booking to make is at Big Whiskey’s, right in the hotel. A place where ‘traditions are just as important as trends’, the restaurant is known for premium hand cut steaks, big burgers, and a bar menu that is second to none.

Hilton Promenade at Branson Landing

Small town getaway on the midwest's national lakeshore.

Bayfield, Wisconsin has been called the ‘Best Little Town in the Midwest’, and this  downtown condo  is the perfect place to experience everything the area has to offer.

Though this is a great getaway for anyone, I really recommend the location for a getaway with teens and older children. This historic two bed, two bath property is located in downtown Bayfield, just blocks from Lake Superior, boutique shops, and local dining (not a restaurant chain in sight). Older kids will enjoy the freedom to explore this town on their own, and everyone will love the lake vibe and outdoor adventures available.

The house is comfortably furnished and has outdoor seating on both the front porch and rear deck, expanding your room to roam. The well appointed kitchen has all the cooking utensils, plates, dishes, and amenities you need for dining in.

Condo Dtn Bayfield Sleeps 5

The hotel your kids dream about in the midwest.

If there was ever a hotel made specifically for kids, it would have to be Great Wolf Lodge. And the  Great Wolf Lodge in Minnesota , with activities and events for all ages and its terrific location near the Mall of America, is a destination the entire family can agree on.

Great Wolf Lodge is known for its massive indoor waterpark. Families can enjoy a float on the  lazy river , or experience multiple water slides.

While pool experiences for toddlers, teens, and all ages in between are guaranteed to be the focus of your getaway, you may just be surprised by the other fun activities at this resort. Character appearances and an evening story time are popular with the resort’s youngest visitors. Older children will love the ‘magical’ MagiQuest adventure through the hotel and the ‘late night’ dance party. Teen approved activities include the ropes course, arcade, and bowling alley.

There is no need to leave the Lodge for meals. Eight dining options – from sit down meals to grab-and-go snacks, and morning coffee to afternoon ice cream – are available to help you power through an active stay.

This all-suite hotel has a wide variety of room configurations available, with many including bunk beds. For an extra level of fun, book a Cabin Suite which features four bunk beds in a ‘separate cabin’ area.

Great Wolf Lodge Minnesota

A midwest lake getaway with waterpark access.

Dreaming of a  lake getaway  with all the amenities? Enjoy Iowa ‘s Lake Okoboji, and all the excitement that comes with it, in this  3 bed, 2 bath lakeview condo at Bridges Bay Resort . This condo has room for eight, as well as a washer/ dryer, making it a perfect spot for larger families.

The kitchen is fully equipped for meal prep and a roomy pantry offers plenty of space for your mealtime necessities. A gas grill and utensils are also available. Of course you don’t have to cook… You’ll find three delicious restaurants within the resort.

Bridges Bay Resort is a family favorite with plenty of water activities. The large outdoor pool features a swim-up cantina, and the indoor waterpark (open year round) includes waterslides, a lazy river, and a giant whirlpool. You’ll even find a stocked fishing pond, as well as large docks for fishing and swimming at the lake. When you’ve had your fill of watersport, enjoy the zipline, kids arcade, or a workout in the exercise facility.

Main Level Condo, A View Of The Lake & Trees

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15 Family-Friendly Midwest Spring Break Ideas

It’s that time of the year folks to start dreaming of your next trip! With warmer weather right around the corner, let’s talk about Midwest spring break ideas. 

1. Hannibal, Missouri

Plan to walk in the footsteps of Mark Twain himself in his hometown of Hannibal. Visit the charming river community to see where he grew up and climb in the cave that inspired his stories. 

Hannibal is a great Midwest family vacation to combine a little American history with your adventures. 

What to Do: Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum, Mark Twain Cave, Mark Twain Memorial Lighthouse, Haunted Hannibal Ghost Tours and Riverview Park.

Where to Eat: Fiddlesticks Food & Spirits Company, Becky Thatcher’s Diner, Mark Twain Brewery, and Becky’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream Parlor and Emporium.

Where to Stay: Hotel with Indoor Pool and Free Breakfast

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, if you book through our link we will receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thanks for supporting the blog!

2. Springfield, Illinois

No reason spring break can’t be fun AND educational too! We’ve visited Springfield multiple times, our latest adventure was on our Route 66 trip from Chicago where we visited the Presidential Museum. It’s a must-see for children and adults alike! 

No need to plan because we put together a Springfield Itinerary for you!

What to Do: Lincoln Home, Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum, Lincoln Tomb, Ergadoozy Creative Play Center (kids under 12), Henson Robinson Zoo, and Knight’s Action Park (check opening dates).

Where to Eat: Cozy Dog Drive In, Incredibly Delicious, Mel-O-Cream Donuts, and Gallina’s Pizza.

Where to Stay: Hotel with Free Parking, Breakfast, Indoor Hot Tub & Pool plus Free Evening Drinks & Hors D’oeuvres

3. Indianapolis, Indiana

Indianapolis should top any Midwest family weekend getaways list because there is so much to do and see. From the world’s largest children’s museum to the oldest continuously operated racecourse, Indy has a lot going on.

For more details on what to discover on your trip, read our Indy Must-Do’s . 

What to Do: The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, Conner Prairie Living History Museum, The Canal Walk, Indy Motor Speedway, Indy Zoo, Capitol Building, and White River Gardens.

Where to Eat: Maxine’s Chicken and Waffles, Mug-n-Bun, Shoefly Public House, Old Spaghetti Factory, and Flying Cupcake Bakery.

Where to Stay: A Hotel with a Great Location, Indoor Pool and Free Breakfast

4. Branson, Missouri

Branson is probably the most underrated family destination in the Midwest. It’s time the city shed its cheesy musical reputation because it has a lot of cool things to do for kids and adults alike. 

What to Do: Titanic Museum, Silver Dollar City Amusement Park, Table Rock Lake Trail, Dick’s 5 & 10 Store, Dogwood Canyon, Dolly Parton’s Stampede, Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery, and Branson Landing. Read more about the Top Ten Things to do in Branson with Kids here.

Where to Eat: Danna’s BBQ & Burger Shop, White River Fish House, Andy’s Frozen Custard, Pasghettis Italian Restaurant, and Hurts Donuts.

Where to Stay: 2-bedroom Condo with outdoor swimming pool, full kitchen and free parking

5. Door County, Wisconsin

If you don’t want your typical busy spring break trip, choose Door County for a quiet getaway. All the craziness of the tourist seasons fall away this time of year, and you can enjoy the place without the crowds.

From snowmobiling to ice skating, sleigh rides, or flaming fish boils, there’s a little something around every cozy corner. 

What to Do: Create your own art at Hands On Art Studio, snowshoe, cross-country ski, Door County Maritime Museum, ice skate, sledding, tubing, Third Avenue TAP Playhouse, sleigh rides, Sister Bay Bowl, ice fishing or snowmobile rides. 

Where to Eat: *Always check winter hours.* Door County Coffee & Tea, White Gull Inn & Restaurant, Shipwrecked Restaurant & Brewery, Door County Candy, Door County Deli, and Sweetie Pies.

Where to Stay: Apartment with full kitchen, indoor pool, and hot tub.

6. Minneapolis, Minnesota

Home to one of the largest malls in the United States, Minneapolis is jam-packed with interesting things to do. From indoor roller coasters and mini-golf to outdoor hikes and parks, it’ll be easy to fill in your itinerary. 

What to Do: Mall of America, Sculpture Garden, Como Park Zoo & Conservatory, Science Museum of Minnesota, Minnehaha Park, Can Can Wonderland, Crayola Experience, The Works Museum, and Nickelodeon Universe. 

Where to Eat: Brasa, Izzy’s Ice Cream, Bonfire, Chris and Rob’s Taste Authority, Pizzeria Lola, and Pat’s Tap. 

Where to Stay: Cool Hotel near Mall of America

7. Black Hills, South Dakota

One of the best Midwest family road trips is to the Black Hills of South Dakota. In fact, it even made my list of favorite road trips from Chicago . 

You’ll find history, nature, wildlife, and scenic drives throughout the region.

To plan your trip, check out our in-depth 7 day Black Hills Itinerary here. 

What to Do: Wildlife Loop in Custer State Park, Mount Rushmore, Wind Cave National Park, Evans Plunge Hot Springs, Crazy Horse, and Badlands National Park.

Where to Eat: Chuck Wagon Dinner Show, Baker’s Bakery & Cafe, Black Hills Burger & Bun Co, Wall Drug, and Legion Lake Lodge. 

Where to Stay: Bavarian Inn with Free Breakfast & Indoor Pool

8. Saint Louis, Missouri

Looking for a frugal family vacation midwest-style? Then St. Louis is THE place. The city offers so many great attractions and the best part is most of them are free!

If you’d like to read more, check out our post for our favorite St. Louis things to do here. 

What to Do: Gateway Arch National Park, St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station, City Museum, Science Center, Saint Louis Zoo, and The Magic House.

Where to Eat: Crown Candy Kitchen, The Fountain on Locust, Fitz’s, Rooster, Pappy’s Smokehouse, and Hodak’s Restaurant and Bar.

Where to Stay: Hotel with Indoor Pool with a Free Breakfast

READ NEXT: BEST MIDWEST FAMILY VACATION WITH TODDLERS

9. Shawnee National Forest in Illinois

A hidden outdoor gem in our home state of Illinois is the Shawnee National Forest where you’ll find neat hiking trails and cozy cabins. Since it’s mostly outdoor adventures, Shawnee falls on our budget Midwest vacations list. Read here for our weekend itinerary.  

What to Do: Rim Rock National Recreation Trail, Cave-in-Rock State Park, Bell Smith Springs Scenic Area, Garden of the Gods, Giant City State Park, and Triggs Tower.

Where to Eat: E-Town River Restaurant (check hours, seasonal), Ned’s Shed, Vienna Diner, Chocolate Factory, Red Onion, Diver Down, and Mackie’s.

Where to Stay: A Private Cabin with two bedrooms

10. Boyne Mountain, Michigan

Whether you want to splash inside at Michigan’s largest indoor waterpark or hit the ski slopes, there are activities galore at Boyne Mountain. And once you get there, you don’t have to leave because it’s all in one place making it one of the best family vacations in the Midwest.

What to Do: Tubing, Sno-Go Biking, Horse-drawn Carriage Rides, Indoor Waterpark, Skiiing, Ice Skating, Zip Lining, or Dog Sledding.

Where to Eat: Snack Shack, Eagle’s Nest, Waffle Cabin, and Happy Taco’s.

Where to Stay: Resort with an Indoor Waterpark

11. French Lick, Indiana

Number one reason for a visit to French Lick with kids is for Wilstem Ranch, where you can give an elephant a bath or schedule an animal encounter with any of the other five exotic animals there.

Plus, there’s an indoor water park, zipline course, and theme-excursion train rides. All aboard!

What to Do: Wilstem Ranch, French Lick Scenic Railway, Big Splash Water Park, West Baden Springs Hotel, and Marengo Cave.

Where to Eat: 33 Brick Street, German Café, French Licks Ice Cream, and Vintage Café. 

Where to Stay: Family-friendly resort with Indoor Water Park.

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Wilstem (@wilstem) on Oct 11, 2018 at 9:02am PDT

12. Kenosha, Wisconsin

Another one of our favorite Midwest vacation spots for families is Kenosha. There are interesting museums, great restaurants and neat lighthouses all along beautiful Lake Michigan.  

We took our nephews a few years ago over their spring break and they have been asking to go back ever since. 

And the best part is with reasonably priced hotels and attractions, it’s a budget-friendly destination. Read here for more info in and around Kenosha. 

What to Do: Dinosaur Discovery Museum, Ride Electric Streetcar, Kenosha Public Museum, Sculpture Walk on the Lakefront, Civil War Museum, Lighthouses, and Mars Cheese Castle.

Where to Eat: Kaiser’s, The Daily Dose, Choo Choo Charlie’s, Frank’s Diner, and Tenuta’s Italian Restaurant. 

Where to Stay: Hotel in good location with a free full breakfast and indoor pool.

13. Kansas City, Missouri

Kansas City was one of many Midwest vacations that surprised us. We found so many great things to do, read here for our recommendations on what to do and see in KC . 

What to Do: Kaleidoscope, Union Station, National WWI Museum, Kansas City Zoo, Legoland Discovery Center, Wonderscope Children’s Museum, and Crossroads Art District. 

Where to Eat: Kate’s Kitchen, Donutology, Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant, and Joe’s Bar-B-Que

Where to Stay: Hotel Suites with Free Parking & Breakfast and an Indoor Pool.

14. Chicago, Illinois

What isn’t there to do in Chicago? Cool museums, fun parks, exotic animals, good food, and beautiful architecture. 

What to Do: Skydeck at Willis Tower, Museum of Science and Industry, Navy Pier, Shedd Aquarium, Blue Man Group, Millennium Park Campus, and Lincoln Park Zoo. 

Where to Eat: Wildberry Cafe, Safehouse Chicago, Portillo’s, Crosby’s Kitchen, Gino’s East, and Garrett’s Popcorn.

Where to Stay: Hotel near Riverwalk with Free Breakfast and Indoor Pool 

15. Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Even though Milwaukee is well known for its beer industry, there are family-friendly things to do all around the city. 

What to Do: Betty Brinn Children’s Museum, Discovery World, Milwaukee Public Museum, Milwaukee Bucks Basketball Game and Milwaukee County Zoo.

Where to Eat: SafeHouse, AJ Bombers, Leon’s Frozen Custard, Cranky Al’s, and Milwaukee Public Market. 

Where to Stay: Brewhouse Boutique Hotel with Kitchenettes in a Great Location

Do you have any other Midwest spring break ideas? Or other family vacations in the Midwest you’d like to recommend? Share with us in the comments below!

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• About Author
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Angela E. is a travel writer from the Chicagoland area who has visited all 50 states in the US and has traveled extensively around the world. She is passionate about exploring the great outdoors and hiking in particular. Her love for nature has taken her to some of the most beautiful locations on the planet. She has written extensively about her travels on her own website, Dang Travelers, and has been published in collaboration with other travel websites and multiple visitor bureaus around the country.

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4 Responses

All of these destinations are beautiful to visit during spring time. I’ve been to quite a few of these places, but I’m so happy you’ve mentioned Kansas City. It is actually a nice place for family vac. We traveled around Missouri for 5 years in a row until we started a horse farm in Iowa. Hope to get back ASAP!

Jill Sparrow

I live in the Midwest and most of these destinations are very high-crime areas.

Dang Travelers

I (we) live in the Midwest, and that’s not true. All big cities have a higher crime rate than rural areas, but they also have way more to offer as far as culture.

Way more to offer… that’s an understatement. 🙂 Folks who don’t live in the cities think crime is ever present whereas those of us who live in them know it’s pretty rare… just happens occasionally when a lot of people live in closer proximity. Know your bearings, look like you know where you are going, and it’s highly unlikely you’ll encounter any trouble. I’ve never had an issue with crime in the Twin Cities myself and have lived here 30 out of my 40 years.

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15 Midwest Vacation Spots to Visit at Least Once

Vacations with midwestern charm.

F rom national parks to the Great Lakes, iconic cities like Detroit and Chicago to historic small towns, the places you travel to for great food (and beer) to those you visit to get away from it all, the Midwest is a varied and beautiful place. While it’s often overlooked as a “flyover” region as travelers head to West or East Coast vacations , this area is home to some amazing hidden Midwest vacation spots that are just waiting to be discovered.

Those in know can score great deals at these under-the-radar locales, whether you’re looking for affordable mini vacations , a girls’ weekend getaway , romantic weekend getaways , or the best road trips to take with the family. Accommodations are just as varied, with everything from all-inclusive resorts in the United States that include golf or skiing to boutique hotels , cheap Airbnbs , and even pet-friendly hotels . Check out our list of the best Midwestern destinations to head to this summer—or any time of year.

Best for music lovers

Detroit, michigan.

One of America’s most historic cities is also a town that’s made a comeback: Detroit went through a rough patch but has blossomed again in recent years. Downtown is packed with fine-dining restaurants, swanky cocktail bars, and trendy hotels and casinos. Visit the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation for a look back at the city’s automotive history, and stop in the Detroit Institute of Arts to see a collection that spans the globe. After a renovation scheduled to be completed by summer 2022, the Motown Museum, otherwise known as Hitsville USA, will be ready for music lovers. And try to catch a show at one of the city’s historic theaters. There is no shortage of good food in Detroit, but Buddy’s Pizza, the famous Detroit-style, four-corner deep dish, is a classic, as is Slows BBQ.

Stay at the Shinola Hotel , a boutique hotel from the city’s watch and leather goods company that draws on classic Detroit architecture.

Best big city

Chicago, illinois.

Recently named the best city in the United States , Chicago is packed with activities for any type of traveler. Families love the Shedd Aquarium, Lincoln Park Zoo (it’s free!), and Field Museum. Groups of friends can laugh the night away at Second City and other improv comedy clubs, or go dancing at one of the many historic jazz clubs, like the Green Mill Lounge. From Chicago hot dogs to Michelin-starred restaurants, there are dining options for every palate and budget. Of course, the third-largest city in America is famous for its skyscrapers, and an architecture tour along the Chicago River is one of those touristy things that’s very worth doing. Save some time to walk along the Lakefront Trail, where gorgeous skyline views meet Lake Michigan. In the summer, you can even go to the beach. With so much to do, it’s easily one of the best Midwest vacation spots.

Stay close to the lake and major attractions at the W Chicago Lakeshore , where you can see fireworks from Navy Pier on Wednesday and Saturday nights in the summer.

Best college town

Madison, wisconsin.

Wisconsin’s capital city sits on an isthmus between Lake Mendota and Lake Monona, and it’s home to the University of Wisconsin’s flagship campus and multiple Frank Lloyd Wright–designed buildings. Tour the inside of the domed capitol building and proceed down State Street, where you’ll find coffee shops, vintage stores, and restaurants. At the end of the street, you’ll hit the university campus, a beautiful complex of historic buildings and walking trails along the lake and up Bascom Hill. Stop at the Memorial Union for a Spotted Cow and cheese curds. Families can also check out the Madison Children’s Museum, one of the best family travel destinations in the city.

Stay at the Edgewater Hotel , a historic resort with wonderful restaurants located right on Lake Mendota.

Best farm-to-table restaurants

Minneapolis, minnesota.

While in the winter Minneapolis hits frighteningly cold temperatures, in the summer it’s one of the best Midwest vacation spots, thanks to dozens of lakes, parks, and the Mississippi River. It’s also one of the most affordable U.S. cities, and there are endless outdoor activities, such as visiting Minnehaha Falls, biking numerous trails, and visiting the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory. The city is obsessed with Prince, the iconic singer from Minneapolis, and music is very much a part of the culture. Take in a concert at one of the many historic small theaters; in warmer months, keep an eye out for music in the parks. Like most of the Midwest, farm-to-table is easy here, so make sure to dine on farm-fresh Midwestern produce at one of the many local restaurants.

Stay at the Hewing Hotel in the Warehouse District, a stylish hotel with custom furniture and lots of local artwork.

Traverse City, Michigan

One of the most underrated American cities , Traverse City is a popular Midwest destination for those in the know because of its charming town center, boutique shops, proximity to the Traverse Bay, and farm-fresh food. Michigan is the country’s leading producer of cherries, mostly from this area, so make sure to try a cherry pie or cider. It’s also the Midwest’s biggest wine region, where excellent Riesling is made. Spend a day taking a tour of the area’s vineyards and wineries.

In the summer, Traverse City is a hot golf destination, and the golf course at the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa was named the best in the Midwest by Golf magazine and Golf Digest .

Best for historic charm

Mackinac island, michigan.

Mackinac Island is a great Midwest vacation spot for those hoping to get away from it all, and it’s one of the most romantic island destinations in the entire country. Motorized vehicles aren’t allowed on the island, which is known for its beautiful limestone rock formations and coastal bluffs. There’s not much to do except relax, walk along the beach, take a carriage ride around town, browse the boutiques, indulge in a spa treatment, or enjoy a meal in one of the historic restaurants. It’s the place to go if you’re searching for a Midwest vacation with old-world elegance.

The Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island was built in the 1800s and looks straight out of Europe. It has the world’s longest wraparound porch, perfect for sitting with a cup of tea and a good book.

Best for natural beauty

Pictured rocks national lakeshore.

When people from outside the Midwest see photos of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, they often guess the photos are from northern California or the Caribbean. The sparkling blue water and multicolored rock formations are harder to get to than other places in the Midwest but are very worth the trip. Take a glass-bottom boat tour or kayak along the coast, where you can take in the sandstone formations up close and look down on remnants of Lake Superior shipwrecks.

Visitors can camp or stay in nearby Munising, where there are plenty of dining options. In Munising, the Sunset Motel is right on the bay and has in-room kitchenettes, so you can do your own cooking.

Best national park

Indiana dunes national park.

Indiana Dunes National Park is one of the country’s newest national parks , designated in 2019. It features massive, nearly 200-foot-high sand dunes along the shore of Lake Michigan. The park is an excellent spot for sighting rare birds, especially during spring migration, and a great location for viewing wildflowers. There are more than 50 miles of hiking trails covering the dunes, wetlands, prairie, and forest.

While you could stay in a hotel in Gary or Michigan City, the park is so picturesque that it’s nicer to stay in a cottage or other vacation rental nearby.

Best for museums

Cleveland’s most famous attraction is the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, where visitors can learn about the history of rock music through the ages and get up close and personal with items like John Mellencamp’s motorcycle, Johnny Cash’s Fender guitar, the Supremes’ dresses, and more. But it’s not the only museum worth checking out. Visit the Cleveland Art Museum to view Egyptian and European artifacts—and more. Then head to the Cleveland Natural History Museum to see “Lucy,” the skeletal remains of one of the earliest known human species. Cleveland is a major city, home to large sporting events, dozens of fantastic restaurants, breweries, parks, and more, making it perfect for a summer weekend getaway .

The Hyatt Regency Cleveland at the Arcade is built inside the old Arcade shopping center, so walking to your room feels like walking through a historic department store.

Best small town

Galena, illinois.

Galena was home to Union General Ulysses S. Grant, and today visitors can tour his home as well as the DeSoto House, a historic hotel where President Abraham Lincoln once spoke from the balcony. The entire downtown is on the National Register of Historic Places for its Italianate, Victorian, and Greek Revival homes. Architecture enthusiasts even call it the “outdoor museum of the Victorian Midwest.” Stroll one of the most beautiful main streets in America, with antique stores and shops that feel like a blast from the past, including an old candy store and diner. Nearby Chestnut Mountain is a popular ski hill in the winter and offers hiking trails in the summer.

Stay at the Goldmoor Inn , which overlooks the Mississippi River and allows guests to reserve their own private cabins.

Best breweries

Grand rapids, michigan.

Grand Rapids is known as Beer City, USA, for its large number of breweries, including Founders Brewing Co., Atwater Brewery, and Brewery Vivant. But it’s not all about the beer. Head to the Gerald Ford Presidential Museum to learn about the country’s 38th president, who grew up in the city. Then visit the beautiful Frederik Meijer Gardens, a botanical garden and sculpture complex. Walk down Wealthy Street and stop in the numerous boutiques, bakeries, and restaurants, or wander through the Heritage Hill neighborhood to marvel at the gorgeous homes. Don’t miss the Downtown Market, an indoor market full of food purveyors and other sellers of wares such as homemade soaps and jewelry. The locals love their town, as it’s one of the best places to live in the country.

The Amway Grand Plaza is the city’s most historic and grandest hotel, and it’s within walking distance of most attractions.

Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

The adorable resort town of Lake Geneva was once where wealthy Chicagoans flocked to get away from the city in the summer. Now, it’s an affordable beach destination . Gilded Age mansions still line the lake, many of them now bed-and-breakfasts. In warm-weather months, visitors can walk around the entirety of the lake, rent boats or kayaks, and picnic in the many parks. In the winter, the lake is used for ice skating, and the town hosts a Christmas market. Lake Geneva is also known as a spa and golf getaway, and many of the hotels double as luxurious wellness retreats.

The Grand Geneva Resort & Spa sits on 1,300 acres and has its own ski runs and golf courses. There are also indoor and outdoor pools and, of course, a luxurious spa.

Best year-round destination

Door county, wisconsin.

The Door County peninsula in northern Wisconsin is one of the prettiest Midwest vacation spots and certainly one of the most gorgeous peninsulas in the United States any time of year. In the winter, you can snowshoe across hundreds of miles of trails or try your hand at ice fishing; in the spring, the wildflowers are in full bloom; in summer, you can truly embrace being on Lake Michigan and Green Bay with water sports and beaches; and in the fall, it’s one of the best places to see colorful leaves. Sister Bay, Fish Creek, and Sturgeon Bay are the most popular towns on the peninsula, each with boutiques, art galleries, historic inns, and plenty of restaurants. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure or a weekend of shopping and spa treatments, Door County has something for you.

Stay at White Gull Inn in Fish Creek, a historic bed-and-breakfast with the best fish boil (a Door County tradition) on the peninsula.

Best for families

Wisconsin dells, wisconsin.

Wisconsin Dells is the perfect family getaway. The city sits on the Wisconsin River in the Driftless Region, an area of Wisconsin that was never covered by glaciers and that now features rugged sandstone cliffs and lush state parks. Spend a day or two hiking the trails and enjoying the beaches, then head to the downtown area, where you’ll find a mock-up Swiss village and other kitschy but fun attractions. Noah’s Ark, the largest waterpark in the country, is a blast, as is amusement park Mt. Olympus. There are endless restaurants of all kinds, fudge and candy shops, ice cream stores, and more along the main drag.

Stay at the Kalahari Resort , which includes one of the best indoor waterparks in the country as well as an outdoor waterpark and other kid-friendly activities.

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Wisconsin’s largest city is known for its breweries and proximity to Lake Michigan. Take a brewery tour to learn about the history of beer in the region, dating back to when Germans first came to the area. Unsurprisingly, Milwaukee also has great bratwurst and other German specialties as well as excellent Friday night fish fries. This is a city that is very into eating and drinking, but if you need a break, visit the Milwaukee Art Museum, one of the largest art museums in the world. It’s housed in a gorgeous building designed by famed architect Santiago Calatrava. You can also visit the Harley-Davidson Museum or the 200-acre Milwaukee County Zoo.

Stay at the Brewhouse Inn & Suites , a hotel in the original Pabst Blue Ribbon Brewery, which has been remodeled but retains historic elements like brick walls and steel beams.